The Persistent Power of 1 Percent

Author: John C. Wright

Categories: Sasakawa USA Forum

Sasakawa USA Forum Issue No. 4

Among the choices that have complicated Japanese defense, one of the most consequential has been Japan’s self-imposed limit on national defense spending. Issued in 1976 and abolished in 1987, the impact of Japan’s decision to limit military spending to 1 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) is still felt today. By examining Japan’s decision to impose a 1 percent limit on its own military spending, we can better understand current Asia-Pacific regional defense arrangements.

Tags: 1 percent, Asia, budget, cold war, Defense, defense budget, defense capability, defense spending, east Asia, Economy, GDP, influence, Japan, john c. wright, military, military spending, regional defense, regional security, Russia, sasakawa usa forum, SDF, security, self-defense forces, spending cap, spending limits, weapons, weapons acquisition