THURSDAY LEADThursday Lead / Economy & Trade
Export values are rising, but volumes tell a weaker story. Yen effects, prices, and AI-chip demand are making Japan’s industrial strength harder to read.
Long-form reading on economy, security, technology, culture, and daily life.
02
Energy / Security
The sea lane from the Gulf to Japan links fuel, power prices, inflation, and diplomacy. Stockpiles buy time, but they do not erase dependence.
03
AI / Cyber Defense
Airports, railways, power grids, and telecom networks are becoming the new frontier for AI. The question is whether AI can help defend critical systems before attacks spread.
04
Semiconductors / Industrial Policy
A Hokkaido fab, UK cooperation, IBM and imec technology: Rapidus is Japan’s national experiment in recovering time at the leading edge.
05
Defense / Taiwan Strait
Taiwan risk, the southwest islands, long-range missiles, and U.S. uncertainty are pushing Japan toward a clearer language of deterrence.
06
Resources / Arctic
Finding minerals is not the same as building a supply chain. Japan’s resource security now runs through geology, Arctic politics, processing, finance, and local consent.
07
Imperial Household / Society
Male-line succession, former imperial branches, female royals, and public support for Princess Aiko all meet in a debate about tradition and modern legitimacy.
08
World Cup / Japan
Japan’s draw with the Netherlands, Tunisia’s heavy defeat, and a mid-tournament coaching change turn Group F’s next match into a psychological test.
09
Tourism / Local Life
Even when arrivals soften, Japan’s most popular sites can still feel crowded. The problem is not just volume, but concentration, timing, and local capacity.
10
Climate / Daily Life
Japan’s new term for 40°C days is more than a weather label. It is a warning that heat is now a public-health, labor, school, tourism, and urban-design issue.
Quick routes through today’s edition.