Key Facts
• July 2, 2025: Party leaders’ debate hosted by Japan National Press Club.
• Tamura’s key message: “Reduce consumption tax with fewer LDP-Komeito seats.”
• Communist Party proposes cutting consumption tax to 5% and abolishing the invoice system.
• Tamura criticizes LDP-Komeito for offering one-time cash payments instead of structural reforms.
• Corporate profits rose 2.6x under Abenomics, but corporate tax revenue only increased 1.6x.
• Large corporations’ tax burden is below 10%, while small businesses face around 20%.
• Military spending grew 9.5% this year, surpassing social welfare and small business budgets.
• Japan’s military budget aims for 2% of GDP, with U.S. pushing for 3.5%.
• Tamura opposes military expansion, advocating diplomacy to ensure peace in East Asia.
• LDP’s Ishiba argues Japan’s defense spending reflects severe security threats, including North Korea and reliance on Middle Eastern oil.
Summary
During the July 2, 2025, party leaders’ debate, Communist Party leader Tamura emphasized reducing the consumption tax to 5% and abolishing the invoice system to address rising living costs. She criticized the ruling LDP-Komeito coalition for prioritizing one-time cash payments over sustainable reforms. Tamura highlighted disparities in corporate tax burdens, with large corporations paying less than 10% compared to small businesses’ 20%. She also opposed Japan’s growing military budget, which has risen 9.5% this year, arguing it undermines social welfare and economic stability. LDP’s Ishiba defended the military spending, citing Japan’s challenging security environment and the need for increased defense capabilities. Tamura advocated diplomacy and regional peace initiatives as alternatives to military expansion.
