Policy & Regulation

An overview of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s instructions to her Cabinet and what overseas business leaders should understand about Japan’s policy direction, based on the provisional English translation released by the Prime Minister’s Office.

This article reviews how Japan’s major national newspapers interpret the ruling coalition’s victory in the general election, focusing on economic policy, fiscal discipline, and market reactions.

This article examines the 2025 U.S. National Security Strategy and what the absence of references to North Korea means for Japan’s security risks and economic position.

Japan’s Metropolitan Police Department has exposed a suspected case of foreign intelligence-linked information leakage. This article explains the espionage risks companies and staff in Japan should be aware of.

Japan is moving to introduce record performance and communication rights into its copyright law, reshaping how Japanese music used as background music is licensed and monetized worldwide.

Japan is considering stricter requirements for acquiring citizenship, alongside new overtourism measures and potential visa fee hikes. This article explains how these policies may affect business travelers and foreign residents.

Japan moves closer to restarting the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant as Niigata’s governor signals approval. This article explains the restart process, public debate, and what the decision means for companies considering entry into Japan.

A practical guide for foreign companies entering Japan, explaining how the Yakuza, hangure groups, and other anti-social forces operate today, and what compliance measures businesses need to take to avoid hidden risks.

Japan's new growth strategy prioritizes 17 strategic sectors, including shipbuilding, linking economic policy with national security. We examine Takaichi’s “responsible active fiscal policy” and its implications.

Japan is planning to raise its visa issuance fees, according to a recent Nikkei report. This article explains the background, current fees in the U.S. and Europe, and why the policy change is being considered.