LDP Unit Urges Stricter Land Acquisition Rules Near Military Bases

The Liberal Democratic Party's Foreigner Policy Headquarters has proposed strengthening regulations on land acquisitions near Self-Defense Force bases regardless of the buyer's nationality ^[1].

This move signals a shift toward a security-first approach to land ownership in Japan. By removing nationality as a primary filter, the proposal aims to close loopholes that could allow external interests to acquire strategic land through third-party intermediaries, or corporate shells.

Yoshitaka Shindo, head of the LDP Foreigner Policy Headquarters, said the proposal is part of a comprehensive effort for the national and local governments to work together on improved foreigner policies ^[1]. The focus remains on land deemed critical to national security, such as areas surrounding bases in Okinawa and Yokosuka ^[1], ^[2].

Shindo said the government should consider restricting the acquisition of important land regardless of the nationality of the acquirer ^[3]. The goal is to reduce security risks and prevent the acquisition of critical sites by external forces ^[1], ^[3].

While the party pushes for these restrictions, the government is moving forward with legislative action. A government spokesperson said the cabinet will decide on the land-acquisition restriction bill on June 26 ^[2], with the intent to pass it during the current Diet session.

Earlier in the year, reports indicated the government planned to establish a panel of experts in February to further discuss the strengthening of these regulations ^[4]. The current proposal from the LDP unit adds political pressure to ensure the resulting legislation is broad enough to cover all potential security threats, not just those tied to specific foreign citizens.