Japan’s New PM Revives ‘Cool Japan’ Content Push

Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has renewed the country’s Cool Japan policy, pledging stronger government support for anime, manga, and digital entertainment exports. In her first policy speech before the National Diet, Takaichi reaffirmed pro-stimulus economic policies similar to those of Shinzo Abe, emphasizing creative industries as key drivers of Japan’s growth and cultural diplomacy. Kimi Onoda, Economic Security Minister and a close ally, stated that anime, manga, and games not only boost exports but also inspire global interest in the Japanese language and culture. Onoda, a former otome game developer, also oversees Japan’s intellectual property and AI strategies. Industry observers note this administration’s deep understanding of entertainment signals a shift toward cultural industries as central to Japan’s global economic identity.

Animenomics, Richardson Handjaja – Japan renews focus on anime, manga exports – 29th October 2025