Takaichi to Retain Finance Minister Katayama in Cabinet Reshuffle

Prime Minister Takaichi is arranging to retain Finance Minister Katayama in the upcoming cabinet reshuffle this month. The decision aims to maintain the government's core structure ahead of consumption tax reduction deliberations. The continuation supports planned tax cuts effective April next year, with Prime Minister Takaichi valuing stability and continuity. A government official cited the need for a counterpart capable of handling U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent. Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara, Vice President Aso, and Secretary-General Suzuki are also set to remain. The government and ruling party are coordinating to convene an extraordinary Diet session in early October. Prime Minister Takaichi will finalize personnel plans swiftly in line with this schedule.