Japan eases restrictions on arms exports

Yesterday, Japan announced the easing of its restrictions on arms exports that have been in place for decades, in a historic change that opens the door to the sale of weapons abroad by the country that has adopted a peaceful constitution since the end of World War II.

Japanese government spokesman Minoru Kihara said: “Thanks to this partial amendment to the (Three Principles for the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology) and related rules, it is now possible, in principle, to allow the transfer of defense equipment, including all finished products.” This change received the support of the government and the National Security Council, but it raised the ire of China, whose Foreign Ministry spokesman, Guo Jiaqun, said that it was “deeply concerned” about this change.