Japan convenes first expert panel to shape new counter-espionage laws

Tokyo announced that a newly formed expert panel will meet on Monday to advise on bolstering Japan’s intelligence capabilities, including possible counter-espionage laws. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, noted for her hawkish security stance, will be present at the discussion, which may also cover the establishment of a foreign intelligence service. The 17-member body, composed of academics, media figures and corporate executives, is tasked with producing recommendations that the government aims to turn into legislation during the next ordinary parliamentary session.

Since Takaichi assumed office last October, Japan has launched the National Intelligence Council and the National Intelligence Bureau to address growing security concerns from China, North Korea and Russia. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party and its junior partner, the Japan Innovation Party, have pledged to create an independent intelligence agency modeled on the U.S. CIA by March 2028 and to pass early laws requiring foreign agents to register.