Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced a reorganization of his party’s web3 and cryptocurrency policy units, signaling a continued commitment to advancing digital innovation in the country. The changes, revealed by Japan’s CoinPost, were introduced by Masaaki Taira, the newly appointed Digital Minister, at a forum on November 27.
Taira confirmed that the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will be dissolving its current Web3 Project Team (PT) and will instead establish a dedicated team within the party’s Digital Society Promotion department. This restructuring places the focus firmly on Japan’s digital future, with Akihisa Shiozaki, the former Secretary-General of the Web3 PT, selected to lead the new unit.
Despite these changes, the government has made it clear that it will continue to support the promotion of web3-related businesses. The Web3 PT, initially created by former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, was instrumental in exploring blockchain, cryptocurrency, and NFTs as key components of Japan’s economic growth strategy. Kishida’s departure earlier this year did not deter ongoing efforts to integrate these technologies into the national economy, and Ishiba’s administration seems committed to pursuing similar goals.
Continued Commitment to Blockchain and Crypto
Masaaki Taira, who previously led the Web3 PT, reiterated his support for reforming Japan’s crypto tax laws, a major point of contention for the industry. Taira has also been a key figure in introducing crypto regulations and shaping policy during the Kishida administration. His continued involvement signals that the government remains focused on building a robust and forward-thinking digital ecosystem.
Akihisa Shiozaki’s appointment as head of the new unit has been met with optimism by the crypto community. Shiozaki, who has long advocated for crypto and blockchain reforms, has pushed for urgent tax reforms and emphasized the importance of supporting decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). His leadership in these areas will likely continue to drive Japan’s digital policies in a more crypto-friendly direction.
Although the government has not yet outlined the full scope of the Digital Society Promotion department’s responsibilities, the continuity of Shiozaki’s influence is expected to reassure industry advocates. His efforts have already had a notable impact, particularly in championing the adoption of DAOs and securing institutional support for Japan’s evolving digital landscape.
As Japan looks to solidify its position as a leader in the global digital economy, these changes reflect the country’s ongoing push to integrate blockchain technology and decentralized systems into its financial and regulatory frameworks.
