Japan's military-industrial complex raises widespread concerns: Chinese spokesperson

Beijing has ratcheted up its condemnation of Japan's accelerating defense build-up, with a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson warning on May 29th that Tokyo's expanding "military-industrial complex" poses widespread regional concerns. This sharp rebuke follows recent Japanese parliamentary approvals for record defense spending and a controversial relaxation of arms export rules, signaling a decisive shift in its post-war pacifist posture. The accusations underscore intensifying Sino-Japanese tensions as Tokyo, under the Kishida administration, actively recalibrates its security strategy to counter perceived threats from China and North Korea. Japan's 2026 defense budget hit an unprecedented ¥7.95 trillion, reflecting a commitment to acquire advanced capabilities like counter-strike missiles and participate in joint development projects such as the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) with the UK and Italy. This pivot is seen in Beijing as a dangerous remilitarization, challenging the existing security architecture in the Indo-Pacific. Analysts expect Beijing to continue its assertive diplomatic pressure, potentially escalating rhetoric or imposing economic measures, as Japan pushes ahead with its defense transformation. The controversy also casts a shadow over nascent efforts to stabilize Sino-Japanese relations, particularly as both nations navigate a complex regional security landscape. Observers will be watching for further Japanese moves on arms exports and any direct responses from Beijing to specific defense procurements.