Takaichi congratulates Keidanren on its 80th anniversary

Good evening, everyone. My heartfelt congratulations to Keidanren on its 80th anniversary. The Japanese economy has experienced stagnation under a deflationary economic structure. However, thanks in part to the efforts of those gathered here today to raise wages, as well as the effects of economic policies implemented thus far, the tide is clearly beginning to turn. Wage increases in the 5 percent range have been achieved for three consecutive years, and private-sector capital investment in Japan reached a record high in FY2025. Japan now stands at a crossroads: will these signs of change prove temporary, or will we translate them into a sustainable virtuous cycle of growth? That is precisely why the Takaichi Cabinet, under its policy of responsible and proactive public finances, has boldly revised its budget formulation policy, with Japan's Growth Strategy and the Strategy for the Future of Regions serving as its two driving forces. The Government will take the initiative and systematically undertake large-scale, long-term and highly predictable fiscal expenditures to serve as a catalyst for private-sector investment, thereby vigorously encouraging bold domestic investment. In the Growth Strategy Implementation Plan, to be formulated by the end of this year, we will set out a roadmap for domestic investment over the next five years, focusing on priority fields that will generate earnings in the near term, serve as future drivers of growth, and strengthen economic security. We will also implement comprehensive measures to address cross-cutting issues, including those relating to the labor market and finance, as well as bold regulatory and institutional reforms. Chairman Tsutsui has set an ambitious target of 250 trillion yen in domestic investment by FY2040. I earnestly ask and expect all of you in the business community to respond to the Government's initiatives and, as Chairman Tsutsui has urged, pursue bold investment and wage increases. In closing, I wish you all continued success and Keidanren further development. It has truly been a pleasure to join you today. Many Cabinet ministers have also come here after the Budget Committee proceedings concluded, so please enjoy yourselves. Thank you very much, everyone, and congratulations once again.