Japan eyes relaxed arms export rules, raising concerns over Taiwan and regional security

Japan is moving to ease its longstanding restrictions on exporting offensive weapons, paving the way for broader arms sales to strategic partners. Currently bound by strict rules allowing exports only for defensive purposes like minesweeping or surveillance, new proposals would allow sales of lethal military equipment, such as warships and missiles, to nations with established defense technology agreements. The draft plan, which is expected to bypass parliamentary approval, has sparked concerns