Japan PM Takaichi Boosts Web3 Startups with New Funds and Rule Reforms
Japan is taking clear steps to grow its Web3 and startup scene. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi shared this message in a video talk at the WebX 2026 event in Tokyo. She showed strong support for blockchain projects and young companies that use new technology.
WebX 2026 Draws Big Crowd in Tokyo
The WebX 2026 conference brought together founders, investors, and big firms. Organizers expected around 15,000 people. This made it one of the largest Web3 events in Asia. Takaichi said such meetings help create real business deals and new ideas.
She placed Web3 inside Japan’s larger plan for innovation. The focus was on practical uses of blockchain rather than just crypto trading. The event gave startups direct access to money and partners.
Startup Support Package Brings More Money
Takaichi pointed to the
Japan wants annual startup investment to hit 10 trillion yen by 2027. Longer goals include 100 unicorns and 100,000 startups. The package covers funding, networks for founders, and links between new companies and older ones.
Changes Coming for Crypto Taxes and ETFs
Japan is also updating rules for digital assets. Lawmakers are working on a bill that could set a 20% tax on crypto gains. This would treat crypto more like stocks and bonds. The same bill may open the door for local crypto exchange-traded funds. These tax rules could start in 2028.
Private Grants Add Extra Help
Outside government action, private groups are also active. Ripple and Web3 Salon now offer grants up to $200,000 for teams building on the XRP Ledger. The money targets payments, tokenized assets, and DeFi projects. Web3 Salon works with the Japan External Trade Organization.
Leaders Keep Showing Up at WebX
This is not the first time a Japanese prime minister has spoken at the event. Former PM Fumio Kishida sent a video message in 2024. Shigeru Ishiba appeared in person in 2025 and backed support for Web3 and AI. These repeated visits give the industry steady access to top officials.
What Comes Next for Japan Web3
The next steps include rolling out the startup package and finishing crypto laws. Success will depend on whether new money reaches early-stage teams and leads to real products. Ministries and regulators will handle the fine details of each rule and fund.
Japan’s steady policy push shows it wants to become a top Asian hub for blockchain and startups. The mix of public funding, rule changes, and private grants creates a strong base for growth.
