CIAO DATE: 08/2012
July 2012
Center for Strategic and International Studies
Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda has pushed for a tax increase in the midst of divisive political opposition. The general conensus is that the fallout over the consumption tax-hike bill will lead to political chaos. In reality, however, this may be an opportunity for Japanese politics to move beyond the simple realignment of political parties and fully embrace structural reform. This report, "The Best Scenario: Japan's Political Crisis as a Reform Driver", examines this issue as well as other items on the Japanese political agenda.
Resource link: The Best Scenario: Japan's Political Crisis as a Reform Driver [PDF] - 292K