In a recent committee meeting, Japanese Prime Minister Kono rejected demands from opposition parties for prior parliamentary approval on arms exports. He argued that the government should maintain control over such matters after rigorous reviews by the National Security Council (NSC), which he deemed more appropriate than involving Congress in advance. This statement reflects a broader shift in Japan's defense posture as it seeks to expand its role in global defense industries and adapt to changing geopolitical dynamics.

Opposition member Akira Nagatsuma pointed out that in the United States, congressional notification and review are mandatory for arms exports exceeding certain monetary thresholds, suggesting that Japan should adopt similar measures. In response, Prime Minister Kono insisted that the approval of defense equipment exports would be managed under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act, thus falling squarely within administrative authority and not requiring legislative oversight. This highlights the government's stance on maintaining a significant level of discretion in defense export policies.

Additionally, the government plans to abolish the previous restrictions that limited arms exports to five specified purposes, such as rescue and transport. Instead of prior approval from Parliament, proposals are underway to implement an annual report by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry on arms export permits to be later submitted to the legislative body. This approach indicates a pivot towards a more streamlined process focused on post-facto accountability rather than preemptive legislative control.