Japan remains most trusted power in Southeast Asia despite military build-up: survey

A recent survey by the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore indicates that Japan remains the most trusted power in Southeast Asia. The annual survey revealed that 65.6% of Southeast Asian respondents expressed confidence in Japan, despite its ongoing military build-up and efforts to amend its pacifist constitution. While trust levels remain high, analysts suggest Japan needs to be transparent about its military motives. This transparency is needed to assure Southeast Asian nations that Japan's military actions will contribute to regional security. The survey highlights the continued importance of Japan's role in the region.

In April 2026, Japan eased its arms export rules, breaking with its long-held pacifist foreign policy. This decision coincides with increased military spending by Washington's allies amid declining trust in US security commitments under President Trump, particularly concerning the wars in Iran and Ukraine. The announcement follows Japan's approval of a record defense budget of over 9 trillion yen ($58 billion) for 2026, aimed at strengthening military and coastal defenses due to rising global tensions. A significant portion of the budget, 970 billion yen ($6.2 billion), is allocated to enhance Japan's missile capabilities, including the purchase of domestically produced Type-12 surface-to-ship missiles. The increased defense spending is also motivated by concerns over potential Chinese military action against Taiwan.