Japan approves scrapping a ban on lethal weapons exports in a change of its postwar pacifist policy

Japan on Tuesday endorsed scrapping a ban on lethal weapons exports, a major change of its postwar pacifist policy as the country seeks to build up its arms industry and deepen cooperation with defense partners.

TOKYO — Japan on Tuesday endorsed scrapping a ban on lethal weapons exports, a major change of its postwar pacifist policy as the country seeks to build up its arms industry and deepen cooperation with defense partners.

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The approval by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s Cabinet of the new guideline clears a final set of hurdles for Japan’s postwar arms sales.

The move comes as the country accelerates its military buildup in the face of growing security challenges in the region. While the change of policy met with criticism from China, it has been largely welcomed by Japan’s defense partners such as Australia and attracted interest from Southeast Asia and Europe.