Japan’s Cabinet on Friday approved a record defense budget plan exceeding 9 trillion yen ($58 billion) for the coming fiscal year, accelerating a military buildup that includes cruise missiles and unmanned systems as tensions rise with China.

Japan's aging workforce, labor shortages, and government policies show how the country has adapted as 30% of its population is over 65.

Japan’s Cabinet on Friday approved a record defense budget plan exceeding 9 trillion yen ($58 billion) for the coming year, aiming to fortify its strike-back capability and coastal defense with cruise missiles and unmanned arsenals as tensions rise in the region.

Japan’s industry ministry is set to nearly quadruple its budgeted support for cutting-edge semiconductors and artificial intelligence development to about ¥1.23 trillion ($7.9 billion) for the fiscal year starting in April.

Japan's government on Friday proposed record spending for next fiscal year while curbing debt issuance, underscoring Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's challenge in boosting the economy while inflation remains above the central bank's target.

The draft defense budget sets a new spending record for the 12th straight year amid mounting regional threats and U.S. alliance pressure.

"It's easy to want to drive one of these cute kei cars. It's another thing to put your family in them and travel down the highway at 70 mph," one expert said.

Youth clinics offering consultations on sexual and physical health concerns at affordable prices are expanding their reach in Japan, though public awareness remains limited.