Japan PM Takaichi Reaffirms Web3 and Startup Support at WebX 2026

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reaffirmed the government's commitment to startups and Web3 innovation during a video address at WebX 2026 in Tokyo. Speaking to thousands of founders, investors, and industry leaders, she framed Web3 as a key part of Japan's broader innovation strategy, not just a cryptocurrency initiative. Takaichi highlighted the Comprehensive Startup Support Package, introduced in 2025, which aims to increase annual startup investment to 10 trillion yen by fiscal 2027, create 100 unicorn companies, and support 100,000 startups. The government is also advancing crypto reforms, including a proposed 20% tax rate on crypto gains and a legal pathway for domestic crypto ETFs, though these are not yet enacted. Private initiatives complement government efforts, such as Ripple's partnership with Web3 Salon offering grants up to $200,000 for Japanese startups building on the XRP Ledger, supported by JETRO. Takaichi's appearance continues a pattern set by former Prime Ministers Fumio Kishida (2024) and Shigeru Ishiba (2025), indicating sustained political support for blockchain innovation. Organizers expect 15,000 participants at WebX 2026, making it one of Asia's largest blockchain gatherings.