Historic Rise of Sanae Takaichi

In a historic moment for Japanese politics, Sanae Takaichi has been elected as Japan’s first female prime minister, breaking one of the country’s most enduring political glass ceilings. On October 21, 2025, Sanae Takaichi secured 237 votes in the 465-seat Lower House of Parliament, becoming Japan’s 104th prime minister. She succeeds Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned last month following electoral setbacks.

This landmark election is not only a symbolic victory for gender representation but also signals a shift to the right in Japanese politics, aligning closely with the legacy of her mentor and former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Early Life and Political Career of Sanae Takaichi

Sanae Takaichi is a long-time member of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and has been a prominent figure in Japanese politics for decades. Known as a hardline conservative, Sanae Takaichi has often been compared to international leaders like Margaret Thatcher due to her strong economic and social policies.

She has consistently advocated for:

• Stricter immigration policies

• Traditional family values

• A tougher national security stance

• Reinterpretation of Japan’s pacifist constitution

Her political rise was aided by a coalition deal with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party (Ishin), reached just a day before the parliamentary vote. This coalition demonstrates her intent to push a more assertive domestic and foreign policy agenda.

Policies and Political Ideology

As a conservative leader, Sanae Takaichi emphasises national security, economic growth, and traditional social structures. Her policies are influenced by her mentor Shinzo Abe and international figures like Margaret Thatcher.

Key aspects of Sanae Takaichi’s policies include:

• Economic stimulus measures to boost growth, leading to what is now called the “Takaichi Trade”.

• Emphasis on fiscal expansion, similar to Abenomics, to support investment and consumer spending.

• Advocating a redefined pacifist constitution, allowing Japan a more proactive role in international defence.

Critics, however, caution that applying stimulus during inflationary periods could weaken the yen, increase government debt, and fail to address the rising cost of living.

Economic Impact: The Takaichi Trade

The election of Sanae Takaichi has already affected Japan’s financial markets. Her perceived support for government stimulus measures led to a surge in investor confidence, with the Nikkei index hitting record highs. This phenomenon is popularly known as the “Takaichi Trade”.

Experts predict that Sanae Takaichi’s economic policies will continue to favour fiscal expansion, though negotiations with opposition lawmakers will be crucial for passing major legislation due to her lack of a clear parliamentary majority.

Social Significance: Breaking the Gender Barrier

The election of Sanae Takaichi is a major milestone for women in Japanese politics, a space historically dominated by men. Japan ranks poorly on global gender equality indices, particularly in political representation.

While her conservative stance on gender roles has attracted criticism, her victory sends a powerful message: progress for women can occur through traditionally male-dominated frameworks. This represents a paradox, showing that gender barrier breakthroughs are possible even in conservative political environments.

Future Implications for Japanese Politics

As Japan’s first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi is expected to shape the country’s domestic and international policies in the coming years. Her focus on national security, fiscal expansion, and traditional social values indicates a clear right-wing pivot in Japanese politics.

Analysts suggest that Sanae Takaichi’s leadership could redefine Japan’s political landscape, impacting not only gender equality discussions but also economic and security policies for years to come.

Key Takeaways for SSC Aspirants

• Sanae Takaichi became Japan’s first female prime minister on October 21, 2025.

• She is a conservative leader aligned with Shinzo Abe.

• Known for her “Takaichi Trade”, reflecting her pro-stimulus economic policies.

• Advocates for strong national security and traditional social values.

• Her election is a landmark moment for women in politics, despite her conservative stance on gender roles.

Final Thoughts

Sanae Takaichi has made history as Japan’s first female prime minister, securing 237 votes in the 465-seat Lower House on October 21, 2025.

A long-time LDP leader and close ally of Shinzo Abe, Takaichi is known for her conservative policies, including stricter immigration rules, traditional family values, and a stronger national security stance. Her rise marks a significant shift in Japanese politics, blending gender progress with right-wing ideology.

Economically, the “Takaichi Trade” has boosted investor confidence and the Nikkei index. While celebrated for breaking gender barriers, her leadership also reflects Japan’s evolving political landscape and ongoing debates on fiscal and social reforms.