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Japan's Takaichi Downplays Weak Yen in Campaign Speech

2/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi did not emphasize the advantages of a weak yen in her campaign speech, according to a government spokesperson.
Sanae Takaichi described the yen's depreciation as a "major opportunity" for export industries and a buffer against U.S. tariffs.
Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki said Takaichi aims to promote an economic structure resilient to exchange-rate fluctuations, contradicting reports that she highlighted the weak-yen benefits.

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Story summary

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi did not emphasize the advantages of a weak yen in her campaign speech, according to a government spokesperson.
Sanae Takaichi described the yen's depreciation as a "major opportunity" for export industries and a buffer against U.S. tariffs.
Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki said Takaichi aims to promote an economic structure resilient to exchange-rate fluctuations, contradicting reports that she highlighted the weak-yen benefits.