Takaichi Vows to Strengthen Yen Through Economic Competitiveness Boost

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has vowed to underpin the yen by boosting the country's economic competitiveness. According to a recorded interview aired by Nippon Television on Thursday, she said that her administration's efforts will help ensure market confidence in the yen.

Takaichi also stated that she told US President Donald Trump that the yen's undervaluation was a problem when the two met last month. She emphasized that Japan's economic policy is not aimed at manipulating exchange rates and that her administration aims to boost growth potential through bold investment in crisis management and growth areas.

In response, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent endorsed Japan's economic policy and made no specific demands during a meeting with Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama on August 31. Takaichi reiterated that there is no change to their stance of pursuing both a strong economy and sustainable fiscal policy.