Sanae Takaichi’s Leadership Expected to Make Japan a Global Hub for Digital Assets
Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, is expected to bring a transformative approach to the country’s digital economy by refining blockchain regulations and encouraging innovation in the cryptocurrency sector. Takaichi, who became Japan’s first female prime minister following her victory in the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership race, will officially take office on October 15, 2025.
Industry experts believe her administration will introduce clearer and more refined policies around digital assets, making Japan one of the most progressive crypto-friendly economies in Asia.
“Takaichi’s election may have a material impact on the perception and governance of digital assets within Japan,” said Elisenda Fabrega, General Counsel at tokenization platform Brickken. “Her focus on technological sovereignty and strategic development of blockchain infrastructure suggests a proactive stance toward advancing the digital economy.”
Japan’s Regulatory Evolution Under New Leadership
Takaichi’s administration is expected to enhance existing regulatory clarity under the Financial Services Agency (FSA), which currently differentiates between payment tokens, securities, and utility tokens. Experts anticipate refinements in token classifications, improved frameworks for custody services, and stricter investor protection standards.
“We may see stronger Anti-Money Laundering tools, more detailed disclosure requirements, and a structured process for token issuance and trading,” Fabrega noted.
Maarten Henskens, Chief Operating Officer at Startale Group, added that Japan’s government now views blockchain as a pillar of its digital transformation strategy. He explained, “A looser monetary outlook under Takaichi’s leadership could boost liquidity and drive investor appetite for alternative assets, including cryptocurrencies.”
A Continuation of Japan’s Proactive Crypto Policy
Japan’s crypto framework has evolved steadily since the 2016 Payment Services Act, following the fallout from the Mt. Gox exchange collapse. Regulatory agencies have since emphasized transparency, compliance, and investor safety, making Japan one of the world’s most mature crypto jurisdictions.
The 2022 stablecoin regulations and the 2023 LDP Web3 white paper established a strong foundation for blockchain adoption, with new tax and ETF proposals signaling continued growth. Recent data from Chainalysis shows that Japan’s on-chain crypto value grew 120% year-over-year through June 2025, highlighting surging adoption.
“Given Takaichi’s economic policies and support for blockchain innovation, Japan could reemerge as Asia’s leading digital asset hub,” Henskens said.
Under Takaichi’s leadership, Japan’s focus on innovation-driven regulation may balance financial security and digital freedom, positioning the nation as a model for responsible crypto growth on the global stage.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.