Japan Advances Anti-Espionage Measures Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions

• •Japan's government is enhancing intelligence capabilities to counter threats from China, North Korea, and Russia.
• •An expert panel has been established to discuss anti-espionage legislation and the creation of a foreign intelligence agency.
• •Concerns exist about increased government surveillance and privacy implications as intelligence measures are strengthened.

On September 28, 2026, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi chaired the first meeting of an expert panel focused on enhancing Japan's intelligence capabilities, particularly against threats from China, North Korea, and Russia. The panel aims to discuss the enactment of an anti-espionage law and the establishment of a foreign intelligence agency. Takaichi emphasized the need to protect national interests amid increasing geopolitical competition and foreign interference. The expert panel consists of 17 members from academia, media, and business sectors. The government plans to submit related bills to the Diet, potentially including a Foreign Agent Registration Act and expanded surveillance measures. Concerns have been raised regarding the implications for public privacy and the potential for increased government authority. The ruling coalition aims to have a foreign intelligence agency operational by March 2028, following the enactment of the anti-espionage law. The National Intelligence Strategy is also set to be released within the year.