News

Japan’s new immigration law revisions have led to the deportation of at least 17 asylum seekers, including a Sudanese man who fled conflict with just the belongings in his backpack. Meanwhile, a supplementary protection certification program for individuals escaping warfare has been introduced, sparking debates over the balance between preventing abuse of the system and protecting vulnerable refugees.

The Bank of Japan decided to maintain its policy interest rates at around 0.5 percent after a two-day meeting, citing increasing global uncertainties, particularly concerning the U.S. trade policies under President Trump. The decision comes as the central bank closely monitors both U.S. economic developments and domestic wage and price trends, with expectations of further rate hikes as economic conditions evolve.

Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has unveiled an ambitious plan to export 350,000 tons of rice by 2030, marking a significant increase from the 45,000 tons exported in 2024. This initiative aims to address the current rice shortage in Japan and establish a reliable export mechanism for future needs.

Newly declassified documents reveal that both U.S. and Japanese officials went to great lengths in the 1990s to keep the existence of a CIA station in Tokyo under wraps to protect delicate political and security ties. The records, part of the Kennedy assassination files, detail internal debates and concerns that acknowledging the CIA’s presence could reignite past controversies and jeopardize U.S.-Japan relations.

Indoor plant factories are gaining traction in urban areas like Tokyo, offering a sustainable and climate-controlled solution for growing fresh vegetables regardless of external weather conditions. These facilities, often located within buildings or repurposed spaces, utilize artificial lighting and carefully controlled environments to ensure optimal growth and consistent supply of produce.