China criticizes Japan’s record $58b defense budget

China has criticized Japan’s new defense budget plan, calling it a move toward re-militarization and a revival of militarism, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Friday.

The remarks came during a regular news briefing after Japan approved a record defense budget exceeding 9 trillion yen (about $58 billion) for fiscal year 2026, News.Az reports, citing Reuters.

“Despite repeated international criticism, Japan plans to substantially increase its defense budget again instead of showing restraint,” Lin said, highlighting Beijing’s concern over Tokyo’s growing military ambitions.

 

News.Az