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Japan Forward
11 hours ago
- Business
- Japan Forward
Can Alaska LNG Tip the Scales in Japan–US Tariff Talks?
As negotiations between Japan and the United States over President Donald Trump's tariffs intensify, a US liquefied natural gas (LNG) project is viewed as Tokyo's trump card. The project involves a 1,300-kilometer pipeline running from the North Slope gas field in northern Alaska down through the state to a newly constructed liquefaction plant. Once completed, it could supply 20 million tons of LNG annually to Japan and other East Asian countries. The concept itself has existed for a long time, but the primary obstacle has been the enormous cost. Estimated at $44 billion USD (over ¥6 trillion JPY), the project is more than twice as expensive as another LNG project currently underway in Texas. With rising material prices, the cost is expected to increase even further as the project undergoes additional review. If the project's costs are passed on to LNG prices, it could lead to "high prices" for the consumers. Scheduled to begin operations in 2030, after Trump's tenure, the project faces uncertainties. Takafumi Yanagisawa, senior researcher at The Institute of Energy Economics, Japan, points out that "the risk of policy changes following a change in administration must be carefully considered." There are clear advantages for Japan. Currently, most US-produced LNG is shipped from Gulf Coast terminals, taking roughly 30 days via the Panama Canal and about 40 days via the Cape of Good Hope. In contrast, LNG shipped from Alaska can reach Japan in under 10 days. US-produced LNG, including but not limited to that from Alaska, has another advantage: it does not contain a "destination clause" restricting resale to third parties. A tanker loaded with liquefied natural gas (LNG) arrives at a pier. (©Sankei) Japan's LNG procurement is based on long-term contracts that ensure a stable supply of a fixed volume over an extended period. But even if demand falls, such as during a warm winter, the contracted amount must still be purchased. Since US LNG contracts lack a destination clause, any surplus can be resold to other countries, helping Japan mitigate the risk of excess supply. JERA company of Japan signs Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) agreement at the U.S. Department of Energy headquarters in Washington, D.C. on June 11, 2025. (©US Department of Interior) Private companies are already expanding their procurement of US LNG. JERA, Japan's largest thermal power producer, has signed contracts with four American companies to purchase up to 5.5 million tons of LNG annually. While diversifying supply sources is the primary goal, another important factor is that "the contracts offer greater flexibility" compared to LNG imports from the Middle East, says Mineko Hida, general manager of JERA's LNG Division. JERA has also expressed interest in the Alaska LNG project. At a press conference in late June, Chairman Yukio Kani praised the concept as "very good." He emphasized the short transport time to Japan and the absence of geopolitical risks along the route, such as those linked to the Strait of Hormuz in the Middle East. JERA is reportedly closely monitoring the ongoing review of the project plan. US LNG currently accounts for about 10% of Japan's total LNG imports. With global demand for LNG expected to continue rising, increasing imports from the US will also help strengthen the country's energy security. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and US President Donald Trump meet in the Oval Office, the White House, on February 7. (©Prime Minister's Office) In the Japan-US tariff negotiations, differences persist over issues such as automobile tariffs. President Trump has repeatedly labeled trade with Japan in automobiles as "unfair." However, increasing imports of American cars, which are unpopular among Japanese consumers, or reducing Japan's automobile exports, is unrealistic. If Japan concedes too easily, it risks encouraging repeated unreasonable demands. The Japanese government should therefore approach the negotiations with firmness and persistence. On the other hand, if Washington remains focused on correcting the trade imbalance, no argument about the contributions of Japanese companies to the American economy is likely to sway President Trump. The only way to break the deadlock is by expanding imports of US products that also benefit Japan. While the Alaska LNG project won't immediately reduce the US trade deficit, advancing this initiative with Japan's involvement — one of Trump's pet projects — could have a positive impact. President Donald J. Trump participates in a walking tour of Cameron LNG Export Terminal Tuesday, May 14, 2019, in Hackberry, La. (©White House/Shealah Craighead) In early June, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry sent Takehiko Matsuo, the Vice Minister for International Affairs, to a US government briefing on the Alaska LNG project. While it's clear the government is considering the project as a bargaining chip, another senior Ministry official expressed caution, stating, "LNG prices are directly linked to electricity and gas rates. If the price is high, we simply won't buy it. It all depends on economic viability." So how should Japan engage with the risky Alaska LNG project? Yanagisawa stresses that if Japan decides to participate, "government involvement is essential." He suggests that development support through the Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) could be considered to help keep LNG prices affordable. Should it prove difficult for Japan to take on the project alone, another option would be to share the investment burden with other Asian LNG-importing countries and regions, such as South Korea and Taiwan. "If it's economically viable, then we should do it," the senior METI official said, without ruling out the possibility. Can we leverage the few cards we hold as negotiation tools to break the deadlock? Now is the time to apply wisdom and safeguard Japan's national interests. Author: Shunichi Takahashi, The Sankei Shimbun ( Read this in Japanese )
Japan Forward
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Japan Forward
An Imperial Week in Photos: Emperor and Empress Conclude Historic Mongolia Trip
On July 11, Their Majesties Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended the opening ceremony of Naadam, Mongolia's largest national festival. They watched traditional archery events and participated in shagai , a game in which animal bones are flicked with the fingers to hit a target. When Empress Masako successfully hit a high-scoring target, the audience erupted in applause. Empress Masako playing shagai, a traditional game in which animal bones are flicked at a target — afternoon of July 11, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. On July 12, Their Majesties observed the festival's main event: horse racing. They applauded enthusiastically as children rode horses across the course. His Majesty also took photographs with his personal camera. Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress tour the information center at Hustai National Park — afternoon of July 12, Töv Province, Mongolia. Later that day, the Emperor and Empress visited Hustai National Park to observe a herd of Przewalski's horses, considered the world's oldest breed of wild horse. They were invited to name a foal. Emperor Naruhito chose "Tomo" (Friend), while Empress Masako chose "Ai" (Love). Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress observe Przewalski's horses at Hustai National Park — afternoon of July 12, Töv Province, Mongolia. On July 13, the imperial couple concluded their 8-day trip with a meeting with President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh at the presidential residence. That evening, they returned to Japan aboard the government aircraft. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and officials. The couple exchanged friendly words with those who came to greet them. After their return, Their Majesties released a statement reflecting on the trip: "We sincerely hope that the friendship and cooperative relationship between Japan and Mongolia will continue to deepen." Although His Majesty had previously visited Mongolia in 2007 as Crown Prince, this was their first visit as a couple. They described the journey as a "very memorable experience." Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress depart from Chinggis Khaan International Airport — afternoon of July 13, outskirts of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. (©Sankei by Kazuya Kamogawa) They also spoke about their visit to a memorial for Japanese internees who were held in Mongolia by the Soviet Union after World War II. His Majesty remarked, "It reminded us of the importance of never forgetting those who perished in the war, deepening our understanding of the past, and fostering a spirit that cherishes peace." On July 14, Emperor Emeritus Akihito, father of the current emperor, was admitted to the University of Tokyo Hospital. He began a new treatment for asymptomatic myocardial ischemia and related conditions. Empress Emerita Michiko accompanied him. According to the Imperial Household Agency, doctors have prescribed a new oral medication to ease the strain on his heart. His condition will be closely monitored through tests such as electrocardiograms as physicians adjust the dosage. On July 11, Crown Prince Fumihito, Crown Princess Kiko, and their family visited the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum in Meguro Ward. They viewed the exhibition Hiroshima 1945 , which marks 80 years since the atomic bombing. The exhibition featured around 160 photographs, including images taken shortly after the bombing by news agencies and others. Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko, with their second daughter Princess Kako and son Prince Hisahito, view the "Hiroshima 1945" exhibition — morning of July 11, Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, Meguro Ward, Tokyo. While viewing a photo taken near the hypocenter, Prince Fumihito remarked, "The blast must have been extremely powerful." According to a museum guide, their second daughter, Princess Kako, also reflected, "I could sense the inner conflict the photographers must have felt as they took these pictures." On July 15 and 16, Princess Kiko visited Miyagi Prefecture to attend several events, including the 61st National Convention for Promoting Blood Donation. On July 16, she visited the Akiu Kagayaki Support School in Sendai City, where she visited Doma Café, a space designed for interaction and learning between students and local residents. She also toured the Tohoku History Museum in Tagajo City. On July 15 in Sendai City, Crown Princess Kiko speaks with students at Doma Café of Miyagi Prefectural Akiu Kagayaki Support School. Later that day, she attended the national blood donation convention at Sendai Sunplaza Hall. In her remarks, she stated, "To ensure a stable supply of blood in the future, it is important for younger generations to understand and participate in blood donation." Also on July 14, Princess Hisako attended the 38th Advanced Technology Award for Pioneering Originality ceremony, held at the Meiji Kinenkan in Minato Ward, Tokyo. The award recognizes outstanding achievements by students in science and engineering, as well as by young corporate researchers. Her Imperial Highness offered words of praise to the recipients. On July 14 at Meiji Kinenkan in Moto-Akasaka, Tokyo, Princess Hisako delivers remarks at the 38th Advanced Technology Award ceremony. (©Sankei by Takumi Kamoshita) ( Read the article in Japanese . ) Author: Masashi Nakamura and Tomomi Yoshizawa, The Sankei Shimbun
Japan Forward
17 hours ago
- Business
- Japan Forward
Rapidus Ushers in New Era with Operational 2nm Chip Prototype
このページを 日本語 で読む On July 18, Rapidus, the company spearheading Japan's efforts to domestically produce next-generation semiconductors, hosted a customer event at a hotel in Chitose, Hokkaido. The venue was located near the site of the company's semiconductor manufacturing facility, which is currently under construction. Speaking at a press conference beforehand, President and CEO Atsuyoshi Koike announced that the pilot production line, launched in April 2025, was running smoothly. He also revealed that the company had successfully confirmed the operation of a prototype 2-nanometer semiconductor chip. This marks a major milestone in Japan's semiconductor ambitions. Chairman Tetsuro Higashi of Rapidus, Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki, and Chitose Mayor Ryuichi Yokota also attended the press conference. President Koike underscored the significance of the achievement, calling the 2-nanometer prototype Japan's first and a groundbreaking milestone. "We achieved this at an unprecedented speed," he said. Looking ahead, he stated that Rapidus will continue refining the chip with the goal of entering mass production by 2027. Attendees at the press conference (from left) Rapidus Chairman Tetsuro Higashi, President and CEO Atsuyoshi Koike, Hokkaido Governor Naomichi Suzuki, and Chitose Mayor Ryuichi Yokota. July 18, Chitose City, Hokkaido (©Sankei by Takahiro Sakamoto) Governor Suzuki expressed strong optimism, stating, "Today marks a major milestone in the history of Hokkaido's semiconductor industry." He also affirmed his commitment to ongoing support. On the same day, members of the media were given a tour of the new IIM-1 factory, which is now approximately 80% complete. The customer event at the hotel drew around 200 participants, including suppliers and prospective business partners from around the world. Author: Takahiro Sakamoto, The Sankei Shimbun このページを 日本語 で読む
Japan Forward
4 days ago
- Business
- Japan Forward
What to Do About Disruptive Foreigners? It's Time to Talk
Issues involving foreigners have become a point of contention in the Upper House election. This is the first time in memory that this issue has been so visible in a national election. The number of foreign residents in Japan as of the end of 2024 reached a record high of approximately 3.76 million. Separately, more than 36 million foreign tourists visited Japan that same year. Unlike in the past, Japanese find themselves regularly interacting with foreigners. Certainly, the majority of foreign residents abide by Japanese laws and customs and conduct themselves appropriately. However, violation of Japanese rules and customs by some foreigners engaging in criminal activity and nuisance behavior has become more noticeable. Those offenses disrupt daily life in a country where public safety has long been considered a treasure. We must take the necessary steps to preserve the benefits that sense of safety has bestowed on society. Land values have surged in the area around Kaminarimon Street in Asakusa, Tokyo. June 27. (©Sankei by Rei Yamamoto) There are also cases where legal activities undertaken by foreigners negatively impacted the daily lives of Japanese citizens. For example, the apartment prices, especially in Metropolitan Tokyo, are reaching levels beyond those experienced at the height of the Bubble Economy. They are increasingly out of reach of Japanese buyers. One factor cited for the trend is Chinese individuals and capital investors acquiring Japanese real estate. Other observers have pointed out that some Chinese travel to Japan to take advantage of the high quality medical care system. Under the Japanese system, even for foreigners, patients pay significantly reduced out-of-pocket medical expenses. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi recently addressed the issue in a press conference. "Conditions have arisen which create feelings of anxiety and unfairness among the Japanese people," he acknowledged. Then, on July 15, the Prime Minister's Secretariat launched a new office to promote "orderly coexistence" between Japanese nationals and foreigners in Japan. Japan is the homeland of the Japanese people. Based on that premise, the government and society should strive to make it possible for Japanese and foreigners to live together peacefully. Respect for established law and customs should go without saying. But if a law is found wanting, there should also be no hesitation to change it. Vietnamese women working as caregiver candidates at a special nursing home for the elderly in Yokohama. (©Sankei by Mie Oh) Currently, the international environment is tense and difficult, making security measures also imperative. Certainly, opaque acquisition or foreign capital ownership should not be allowed for land surrounding sensitive facilities. That includes essential infrastructure sites and Self-Defense Force bases. There are also two points to keep in mind. First, there is no reason for hatred or fear of foreigners. Such misplaced emotions should absolutely be avoided. Not all foreigners are disrespectful and this is not the late Edo period with its violent xenophobia and "expel the barbarians" anti-foreigner movement. Second, we must embrace freedom of speech and allow democracy to work. That means allowing ー not stifling ー healthy debate when issues related to foreigners are raised. It also means avoiding labels such as "xenophobic" or "hateful," even in the face of glaring problems. Friction has been growing between local Japanese citizens and Kurds residing in Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture. One lesson to be learned from this festering problem is that Japan must not follow in the footsteps of Western countries, where social unrest has been fueled by large influxes of refugees and immigrants. The Japanese people deserve an open discussion of appropriate measures to deal with problems involving foreigners. Then, action to improve the situation must proceed calmly and steadily. Author: Editorial Board, The Sankei Shimbun
Japan Forward
6 days ago
- Politics
- Japan Forward
Facing the Invisible Tank: A Hong Kong Group's Fight to Restore Dignity to Political Prisoners
In this five-part series, JAPAN Forward profiles individuals in Hong Kong who are standing up against the far-reaching impact of the National Security Law. The final installment, Part 5, focuses on Yu Yat, an organization dedicated to supporting ex-prisoners from the 2019 pro-democracy protests. In early June, I met a 45-year-old man who had just been released from a Hong Kong prison in April. The man had been arrested while attempting to rescue students from Hong Kong Polytechnic University during the most intense clashes of the 2019 anti-government protests. He tried to help them escape by car but was arrested and sentenced to 22 months in prison. During our conversation, he shared details about his life after prison: — What work are you doing now? "I gather odd jobs like car washing, air conditioning cleaning, and carrying goods, which I share with my companions." — Who do you work with? "About ten people, aged 22 to 50, who were also released from prison." — What work did you do before your arrest? "I worked in construction. I haven't contacted my previous company or clients." — Is there social discrimination? "Of course there is. And there always will be. So my dream is to move to the United Kingdom and start my life over." — Has society changed? "About 70% of the people I was close to have moved abroad. That's 70%. There's no one to talk to anymore. It's hard to adjust back to society. Right now, I can only focus on living in the present." A banner reading "Five Years since Implementation of the National Security Law" stands out against a shuttered store in Hong Kong. (©Sankei by Kinya Fujimoto) An organization that aims to support such people is "如一" (Yu Yat, lit "As One" or "Unified"). Based in the Kowloon district, it helps individuals arrested during the 2019 pro-democracy protests. The group sells coffee, wine, ready-made foods, and other products online, using the profits to provide services such as delivering goods to incarcerated individuals. To date, about 700 people have used the organization. The organization's representative, Mak Chui Yi, 29, shared insights about their work, five years after the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law. "This year, we started a program to support employment for young people who have been released from prison, she said. However, with Hong Kong's economy not fully recovered, finding companies willing to hire ex-prisoners is no easy task. Adviser Yau Si Chung, 33, commented: "It's important to make sure society doesn't forget about prisoners and ex-prisoners. We need to prevent their 'social death.'" Anti-government demonstration held in Hong Kong in 2019. (©Sankei by Kinya Fujimoto) To highlight the voices of ex-prisoners, Yu Yat began a podcast in 2025. The show features the stories of those who have been released from prison. Former pro-democracy district councilor, Lancelot Chan Wing-tai, 61, is the host. He himself is an ex-prisoner. Lancelot Chan Wing-tai. In June 2020, Chan was arrested and prosecuted for calling for a protest against the National Security Law, which was implemented that night. He was sentenced to prison and spent about 10 months behind bars, being released in May 2023. Chan shared, "I want not only to help citizens understand the feelings of those released from prison but also to tell them personally, 'Don't worry! You'll be able to live a normal life.'" He also wants to convey something else to both ex-prisoners and today's youth: "Don't [recklessly] put yourself in a situation where you'll be arrested. Now is the time to gather your strength." Yu Yat was established in 2022. Mak, the representative, had never participated directly in the protests or run for election. She simply worked in the office of a pro-democracy district councilor. To avoid attracting attention from the authorities, it was necessary for someone without strong pro-democracy affiliations to take the role of the representative. After much consideration, she took on the role of leading Yu Yat. "Someone had to do it," Mak said. Recently, she said she feels "pressure" as she sees her friends advancing in their careers. However, she emphasized, "The most important thing is to continue the work of Yu Yat even as it has become more difficult. I am satisfied with that." Yau Si Chung, though a pro-democracy activist, revealed that after becoming involved with Yu Yat, he was encouraged to "focus more on financial matters than on his own beliefs" and that this led to "internal conflict." When asked about the impact of the National Security Law after five years, Yau responded, "Now Hong Kong is a place where speech can be a crime. I don't think Hong Kong will ever return to what it was before [the implementation of the NSL]." But he added, with a touch of hope, "There are still Hong Kong people who are trying to slow down the pace of Hong Kong's sinicization." Indeed, there are people in Hong Kong, like Chan, Mak, and Yau, who continue to stand firm in front of the invisible tank, resisting powers that seek to suppress the truth by force. ( Read the article in Japanese . ) Author: Kinya Fujimoto, The Sankei Shimbun
