Japan on Tuesday endorsed scrapping a ban on lethal weapons exports, a major change of its postwar pacifist policy as the country seeks to build up its arms industry and deepen cooperation with defense partners.
The approval by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Cabinet of the new guideline clears a final set of hurdles for Japan's postwar arms sales.
The move comes as the country accelerates its military buildup in the face of growing security challenges in the region. While the change of policy met with China's criticism, it has been largely welcomed by Japan's defense partners like Australia and attracted interests from Southeast Asia and Europe.
Opponents say the change violates Japan's pacifist constitution and will increase global tensions and threaten the safety of the Japanese people.
Published on April 21, 2026