Japan's PM Takaichi Doubles Down on Corporate Investment, Shuns Austerity Amid Global Headwinds

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Tuesday declared it's no time for "excessive fiscal austerity," signaling her government will continue to rely on stimulus to spur corporate investment. Speaking to economists in Tokyo on Dec. 23, 2025, Takaichi framed the policy as a direct response to rising protectionism in the U.S. and Europe and persistent uncertainty in global supply chains.

The Prime Minister's call to action is aimed at creating a more competitive domestic business environment to counter external economic threats. "We must develop a more competitive business environment," Takaichi stated, highlighting the risks posed by shifting tariff policies and supply chain disruptions emanating from key trading partners.

According to the Prime Minister, a recently enacted ¥18 trillion ($120 billion) supplementary budget is just a "preliminary step" toward this goal. The strategy is clear: use public funds to incentivize private sector investment in technology, infrastructure, and domestic production capabilities.

While the government maintains a high approval rating of 75%, its expansionary fiscal policy isn't without critics. Financial markets have shown signs of alarm over Japan's record-setting budgets and the massive national debt.

The government's stance creates a precarious balancing act. On one hand, the stimulus is designed to spur SME growth and combat inflation. On the other, the continued spending and borrowing are contributing to spikes in government bond yields, a sign of investor nervousness. For now, Takaichi's administration appears willing to accept the market risk in pursuit of economic resilience.