Japan

中国の貿易統計（25年12月）～輸出入ともドル建てで加速。対米輸出は減少が続く

NLI Research Institute | Local Language | AcademicThink | Jan. 16, 2026 | UndeterminedTrade Issues and Numbers

In December 2025, China’s merchandise exports and imports both showed acceleration in dollar terms, with exports rising 6.6% year-on-year and imports increasing 5.7%, according to preliminary trade statistics released by the General Administration of Customs on January 14, 2026. The trade surplus grew to $114.1 billion, up from $104.8 billion in the same month the previous year. On a seasonally adjusted basis, exports increased 2.5% month-on-month, and imports rose 4.9%. In renminbi terms, exports rose 5.2% year-on-year, and imports were up 4.4%, with the trade surplus reaching 808.8 billion yuan compared to 752.9 billion yuan a year earlier.

Exports to the United States continued to decline year-on-year, remaining in negative territory for the second consecutive month. In contrast, exports to ASEAN countries and Japan accelerated, while exports to the European Union decelerated. Product-wise, exports of computers, related parts, and mobile phones improved into positive growth, whereas home appliances remained in the negative. Integrated circuits and automobiles showed acceleration, but auto parts exports turned negative.

On the import side, imports from the United States also remained negative year-on-year. Imports from ASEAN destinations declined further, imports from the EU accelerated, and imports from Japan slowed down. Among products, crude oil imports turned positive, while imports of computers, related parts, and integrated circuits accelerated.

Japan Institute for National Fundamentals | English | AcademicThink | Jan. 16, 2026 | Geopolitical Conflict and Disputes

On January 13, 2026, the circumstances surrounding the U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro were analyzed. The Trump administration justified this action based on Maduro’s regime policies since 2013, which included control-oriented economic measures that led to severe economic contraction, hyperinflation, and shortages causing mass emigration. Moreover, Maduro’s government was accused of repeated human rights violations and connections with terrorist-designated groups involved in narcotics trafficking, posing threats to U.S. security.

In response, the U.S. action aimed to promote Venezuela’s economic reconstruction and democratization, counteracting refugee crises, drug trafficking, and military threats from foreign powers such as China, Russia, and Cuba. The move was not intended as aggression or unlawful occupation but rather as a strategic attempt to restore stability and democratic governance in Venezuela.

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, on January 4, 2026, reiterated Japan’s long-standing position emphasizing the restoration of democracy, respect for freedom, democracy, and the rule of law in Venezuela. Japan committed to cooperating with G7 and regional countries to protect Japanese nationals and promote diplomatic efforts for democracy and stability in Venezuela. Japan underscored that political leaders undermining fundamental values cannot be justified, even if military actions like the U.S. capture of Maduro are contentious. Japan’s National Security Strategy highlights protecting Japanese interests while upholding universal values, and Japan reaffirmed its proactive contribution to peace through supporting a free and open international order based on the rule of law.

抗議のスタンディング「ガザでの虐殺に加担するために私の税金を使うな」 現地は人道支援も滞る状況で

Tokyo Shimbun | Local Language | News | Jan. 16, 2026 | Protest, Demonstration, Dissent

Kenichi Nasu, a Tokyo-based after-school care worker, has been conducting a near-daily standing protest since November 2024 against Japan’s Defense Ministry considering the acquisition of Israeli-made attack drones. He opposes the use of his taxes to support Israeli military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in over 71,000 deaths since October 2023. Nasu emphasizes his desire to protect children and condemns Japan’s recent purchase of 24.1 billion yen worth of Israeli weapons and equipment, viewing this as support for violence in Gaza.

Japan’s Defense Ministry included a 3.2 billion yen budget in fiscal 2025 for 310 attack drones, which represent a shift from surveillance to combat usage. These drones are promoted for their affordability and combat capability, with Israel refining their performance in ongoing conflicts in Palestine. Experts note that Japan’s purchase could be interpreted as tacit approval of Israel’s military actions, despite Japan’s traditionally pacifist stance. Japan and Israel have strengthened defense ties through agreements on investment and classified information since 2017 and 2019.

A recent visit to Israel by a cross-party Japanese delegation, including LDP Security Research Council Chairman Gōdoku Onodera, drew criticism as they met with Prime Minister Netanyahu, who faces an international arrest warrant for war crimes. Onodera praised Israel’s air defense system and the visit was seen by protesters as Japan effectively endorsing Israel amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire even after a ceasefire began in October 2025, with UNICEF reporting continued child deaths and worsening conditions in displaced persons camps. Israel revoked permits for NGOs including Médecins Sans Frontières, which provides significant medical support in Gaza, ordering them to cease activities by March 1. Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi has called for unobstructed humanitarian aid and reiterated support for a two-state solution, but experts express skepticism about the effectiveness of international interventions amid ongoing violence.