Japan denies US request for higher defense budget

Japan has rejected claims that the United States asked it to increase its defense spending to 3.5% of its annual economic output. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi stated during a press conference that no such demand was made, emphasizing that the focus should be on improving Japan’s military strength rather than hitting a specific budget target.

This response came after a report suggested a senior U.S. Pentagon official had pushed for the increase. The U.S., under President Donald Trump’s administration, has been urging its allies, including Japan, to boost their defense budgets. Some sources indicate the U.S. wants Japan and other Asian partners to reach 5% of GDP for defense, matching a target being considered by NATO countries.

Japan recently canceled a high-level security meeting with the U.S., reportedly due to tensions over a proposed 3.5% spending hike, up from an earlier 3% request. However, Japan’s Foreign Ministry clarified that no formal discussions about these targets took place. Japan’s current defense spending is set to reach 2% of GDP by 2027, a significant rise from its historical 1% cap.

A defense panel has suggested going beyond this goal to strengthen capabilities, especially to counter threats from China and North Korea. The debate over defense spending highlights the delicate balance Japan maintains between its economic ties with China and its security alliance with the U.S.