Japan

Japan Faces Diplomatic Friction with China and South Korea

The Japanese state is currently managing separate diplomatic developments with the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Korea. On 24 February 2026, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce (hereinafter: MOFCOM) announced the implementation of export controls targeting 20 Japanese technology and defence entities. These measures restrict the transfer of dual-use items to specific corporations...

Japan’s Takaichi Dissolves Parliament Ahead Of Snap Election

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved the lower house of Japan’s parliament on 23 January 2026, formally setting the stage for a snap general election scheduled for 8 February 2026. The move comes just three months after Takaichi assumed office and marks her first major political test as head of government. By dissolving parliament, Takaichi...

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Announces Snap Election for February

The announcement, made during a news conference on 19 January 2026, sets the date for voting and counting on 8 February 2026. Prime Minister Takaichi stated her intention to dissolve the lower house of the Diet on 23 January 2026, at the start of the ordinary parliamentary session. This decision follows her appointment as the...

China–Japan Export Ban on Dual Use Goods Deepens Tensions

China has imposed an export ban on dual-use goods to Japan following diplomatic friction linked to security issues and political statements concerning Taiwan. The measure, announced by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, restricts exports of goods that can serve both civilian and military purposes when destined for military-related use. Beijing...

Uzbekistan-Japan Partnership: 11€ Billion Deal

On 20 December 2025, during an official visit to Tokyo by the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the governments of Uzbekistan and Japan formalised a new cooperation portfolio valued at over 11€ billion. The agreements, reached following talks with the Prime Minister of Japan, Sanae Takaichi, mark a significant elevation of bilateral ties into an...

China-Japan Tensions Escalate: Island Clashes, Factory Closures and Calls for Mediation

Tokyo/Beijing — Diplomatic and military friction between China and Japan has intensified significantly this week, marked by a maritime confrontation over disputed islands, the high-profile closure of a major Japanese factory in China and urgent diplomatic maneuvering involving France and South Korea. Maritime Clash in the East China Sea On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the...