Key Facts
• Democratic Party for the People (DPP) and Sanseito gained momentum in the Upper House election.
• DPP plans to propose a bill in the autumn session to restrict foreign property purchases.
• Sanseito is preparing internally for similar legislation.
• DPP advocates for a “vacancy tax” on non-residential foreign property purchases.
• Tokyo’s average new apartment price rose 16.7% year-on-year to ¥89.58 million in 2025.
• DPP links foreign property restrictions to national security and housing affordability.
• Sanseito aims to amend the Land Use Regulation Act to enhance its effectiveness.
• Concerns over Chinese acquisitions near military facilities persist.
• Both parties emphasize balancing national security and housing access for citizens.
• The proposed legislation could act as a “litmus test” for party stances on foreign policies.
Summary
The Democratic Party for the People (DPP) and Sanseito are pushing for stricter regulations on foreign property acquisitions in Japan, citing national security and housing affordability concerns. The DPP plans to propose a bill in the autumn session, including measures like a “vacancy tax” on non-residential foreign property purchases. Sanseito is preparing similar legislation, focusing on amending the Land Use Regulation Act to address ongoing issues, such as Chinese acquisitions near military facilities. Both parties aim to ensure affordable housing for Japanese citizens while maintaining national security. The proposed legislation is expected to clarify party positions on foreign policy, potentially serving as a “litmus test” in Japan’s political landscape.
