Daijiworld Media Network – Tokyo

Tokyo, Apr 21: Japan has removed most of its long-standing restrictions on weapons exports, allowing the country to sell arms overseas for the first time since World War II, in a significant shift aimed at strengthening its defence sector.

The cabinet led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Tuesday approved changes to defence export rules, opening up a broader global market for Japanese arms manufacturers.

Until now, Japan had maintained strict limitations on military exports under its pacifist policies, permitting overseas sales only for non-combat purposes such as rescue, transport, surveillance, warning systems and minesweeping operations.

The revised policy marks a major departure from decades of self-imposed restrictions, reflecting Tokyo’s efforts to bolster its defence industrial base amid evolving regional security challenges.

Officials said the move would help domestic companies expand production, improve technological capabilities and strengthen Japan’s strategic partnerships with allied nations.

The decision is also seen as part of a broader push by Japan to enhance its national security posture while contributing more actively to global defence cooperation.