In a move that signals a recalibration of diplomacy, Japan’s newly instated Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi delivered her first major policy address to the national legislature on October 24, 2025 — and observers note a clear softening of tone toward neighbouring China.
While Takaichi emphasised that China remains a “serious concern” in terms of security, she also described Beijing as “an important neighbour” and pledged “candid and repeated dialogue … to promote a mutually beneficial relationship based on common strategic interests.”
Here’s a detailed look at what the address covered, why it matters, how it compares with previous rhetoric, and what this may mean for Japan’s regional and domestic trajectories.
Background: A new leadership and fresh priorities
Takaichi took office on October 21, 2025, becoming Japan’s first female prime minister. She formed a cabinet rooted in her conservative faction of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and faces the twin challenges of economic pressures (including inflation) and heightened security tensions in Asia-Pacific.
In her first press conference she stressed fiscal stimulus, addressing inflation, strengthening Japan’s defence posture, and forging resilient diplomatic ties. The policy address was her first big opportunity to frame her government’s direction.
What the policy address contained: key themes
1. China policy: balance of cooperation and concern
Takaichi’s speech conveyed a dual message: on one hand, she acknowledged China’s importance to Japan as a neighbour and partner in economic and regional matters. On the other, she reiterated that military activities by China (as well as North Korea and Russia) represent “serious causes for concern”, especially in economic-security and regional stability arenas.
Analysts have pointed out that her language toward China marked a departure from more hawkish campaign rhetoric, which had strongly criticised Chinese practices and emphasised decoupling. Now her tone appears more measured and aimed at stabilising ties rather than escalating confrontation.
2. Defence and security
Takaichi announced that she would bring forward the target of raising Japan’s defence spending to roughly 2 % of GDP — previously set for 2027 — into 2026. She also called for bolstering Japan’s defence-industrial base and updating national security documents to reflect evolving threats.
3. Constitutional change and national resilience
In the address she reaffirmed intent to begin proposing constitutional amendments during her tenure, including clarifying the role of Japan’s Self-Defence Forces (SDF). This connects with her wider vision of a more assertive Japan in both defence and diplomacy.
4. Domestic economy and growth
Though the China-policy shift dominated headlines, Takaichi also emphasised tackling inflation, supporting growth industries (like semiconductors and AI), and strengthening food, energy and economic security. Her address sought to frame Japan’s national resilience as both external and internal.
Why the shift toward China matters
Japan’s China policy has long been a balancing act: China is Japan’s largest trading partner, yet Tokyo is wary of Beijing’s military expansion, maritime activities in the East China Sea, and influence in regional affairs. Takaichi’s address suggests she wants to emphasise stability, dialogue and pragmatism over overt confrontation.
Experts interpret the moderation of tone as partly tactical: with new leadership, Takaichi likely seeks to avoid immediate escalation while consolidating her domestic mandate. As one researcher put it: “It’s a conventional statement aimed at stabilising bilateral relations.”
However, the shift does not mean Japan is abandoning its concerns about China. The speech still made clear that Japan perceives security risks, and will proceed with stronger defence and economic safeguards.
Comparison with earlier rhetoric
During her campaign, Takaichi had adopted a much firmer posture toward China — emphasising reducing economic dependence, shifting defence posture and challenging maritime disputes. The web of analysts say the new address strikes a more moderate, pragmatic tone, while retaining core conservative policy commitments.
This pattern is not unique to Japan; many new leaders in Japan move from campaign heat to governing pragmatism, especially in sensitive domains like China policy.
Implications: regional, diplomatic and domestic
Regional diplomacy: The address signals to China and neighbours that Japan seeks constructive ties, which may ease some regional tension and open space for economic cooperation. At the same time, Tokyo’s defence ambitions remain clear, which means the region will monitor how actions align with words.
US-Japan alliance: Japan’s reaffirmation of stronger defence ties and spending will likely reassure the US about Tokyo’s reliability. At the same time, a less confrontational tone toward China offers more diplomatic flexibility.
Domestic politics: Takaichi has signalled an agenda that spans beyond defence inflation, industry revival, constitutional reform — which may help broaden her appeal. However, delivering on those promises, especially economic recovery and security upgrades, will be critical.
China-Japan relations: The address may open possibilities for dialogue and cooperation – or at least lower tensions. But the element of caution remains: Japan retains wariness of China’s military and economic influence. How Tokyo balances engagement with guard will shape one of Asia’s most important bilateral relationships.
What to watch going forward
- Concrete actions: Will Japan follow through with increased defence spending, amendments, and a more open diplomatic posture toward China?
- China’s response: How Beijing interprets and reacts to Takaichi’s measured tone will matter for bilateral stability.
- International reactions: Allied and regional responses, including from the US, South Korea, and ASEAN, will influence Japan’s room for manoeuvre.
- Economic outcomes: Whether the domestic economic agenda can deliver results amidst global headwinds will impact Takaichi’s political strength.
- Security environment: With escalation risks around Taiwan, the East China Sea and North Korea, Japan’s strategy will be tested under real stress.
Key take-aways
- Japan’s new PM, Sanae Takaichi, delivered her first policy address on Oct 24 2025, signalling a shift toward more balanced rhetoric on China — calling it both an “important neighbour” and a “serious cause for concern”.
- Her government emphasises defence upgrades, constitutional revision, and domestic revitalisation alongside foreign-policy recalibration.
- The shift reveals a pragmatic approach: maintaining security concerns while seeking dialogue, in contrast with prior harder-line positions.
- The address carries significance for Japan’s role in the Asia-Pacific, its alliance with the US, and its domestic trajectory.
- The real test lies in implementation: rhetoric is just the beginning; actions and outcomes will define Takaichi’s leadership.
Final Word
In a rapidly changing geopolitics of East Asia, Japan under Takaichi appears to be choosing a course of cautious engagement rather than confrontation. Her policy address reflects a desire to stabilise rather than escalate, even as Japan solidifies its defence and economic posture. Whether this balance holds — and whether it translates into tangible results will shape Japan’s influence in the region and the wider world in the months ahead.
