Takaichi Pushes Intelligence Reform As Diet Battle Nears

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced on September 28 plans to strengthen Japan's intelligence functions ahead of an extraordinary Diet session. The government convened an expert panel to discuss intelligence reform, with Takaichi emphasizing the need for stronger measures against foreign interference, cyberattacks, disinformation, and technology theft.

She proposed enhancing external intelligence capabilities and publishing a medium- to long-term national intelligence strategy. Takaichi's focus on intelligence reform aligns with the government's emphasis on economic security, particularly as tensions with China involve critical technologies and supply chains. The timing of the intelligence reform announcement coincides with her recent diplomatic visits to the United States and China, aimed at addressing economic security and broader security concerns.

The U.S.-China summit has left Japan in a delicate position, seeking stable U.S.-China relations while monitoring potential softening of positions on Taiwan, technology controls, or economic coercion. Takaichi's administration faces domestic political challenges, including a tax cut debate and budget discipline, making intelligence reform a strategic move to showcase long-term national resilience.