Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced his decision to resign amid growing discord within his ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and ongoing economic challenges.
Speaking on Sunday, Ishiba called his choice “difficult” but necessary for party unity, hoping members can overcome current divisions, according to Japan’s NHK.
Ishiba had been considering stepping down since last year’s election, where the LDP lost its parliamentary majority for the first time since 2009. He cited progress in U.S.–Japan trade talks as a key factor in his timing, calling the tariff issues a “national crisis.”
Following a report from chief negotiator Ryosei Akazawa, Ishiba said he no longer wished to cling to power and would step aside to allow a successor to take over.
He called for an emergency leadership vote but will stay in office until a new leader is chosen. The LDP’s snap election loss and recent loss of upper house control have shaken confidence in the party, with critics blaming weak inflation policies, political scandals, and low youth turnout.
Trade tensions with the U.S. have centred on protecting Japan’s automotive sector.
President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order enforcing a 15% tariff on most Japanese goods, part of a long-negotiated deal. However, tariffs on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors remain unresolved, with further U.S. executive orders awaited.
The LDP’s own report acknowledged these difficulties and called for reforms to regain voter trust. Media reports suggest senior party members have pressured Ishiba to resign, though he initially intended to remain.
As Japan prepares for a leadership change, its ability to resolve internal divisions and economic uncertainties will be closely watched, given its role as the world’s fourth-largest economy.