Japan repeals pacifist arms export ban

Japan has formally repealed its longstanding Cold War-era pacifist legislation that severely restricted arms exports. The post-World War II policy had limited Japan's defense industry to selling only non-lethal systems, primarily to its own Self-Defense Forces. Under new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the government is moving to rearm and dramatically ramp up domestic weapons production. Japan is now seeking major investment to expand its defense industry and pursue export opportunities with customers in Asia and Europe.