Sanae Takaichi is Japan's first woman prime minister, having initially assumed office in October 2025 and secured a second term following the February 2026 parliamentary election. Born in Nara, Japan, Takaichi earned a degree in business administration from Kobe University before completing further training at the Matsushita Institute of Government and Management. She also participated in a U.S. congressional fellowship before entering Japanese politics. First elected to the House of Representatives in 1993, Takaichi has held several senior government positions, including Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications and Minister for Economic Security. Her political career has focused on economic policy, national security, technology, and government administration. In October 2025, she became the first woman to lead Japan's government. Her current policy agenda emphasizes economic growth, increased investment in strategic industries, stronger national defense capabilities, and measures addressing rising living costs.
