Japan unveils bold Web3 and startup vision at WebX 2026

Japan’s PM Takaichi addressed WebX 2026, emphasizing support for Web3, a 10 trillion yen startup investment goal, crypto tax reform, and strong public-private collaboration.

At the WebX 2026 conference in Tokyo, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi delivered a video address reaffirming Japan’s commitment to advancing Web3 innovation and supporting startup growth. The event, recognized as Asia’s largest Web3 gathering with approximately 15,000 attendees, provided a platform for startups to connect with investors and foster business collaboration. Takaichi highlighted that Web3 forms a key part of Japan’s broader innovation strategy, rather than being solely a crypto initiative. The government’s Comprehensive Startup Support Package aims to increase annual startup investment to 10 trillion yen by fiscal 2027, nurture 100 unicorns, and establish 100,000 startups. Legislative efforts are underway to introduce a flat 20% tax rate on cryptocurrency profits, aligning crypto taxation with equities and potentially taking effect in 2028. Private sector initiatives, including grants from Ripple and Web3 Salon for XRP Ledger projects and significant investments from SBI Holdings, further underscore the momentum in Japan’s Web3 ecosystem. Takaichi concluded by expressing hopes for the conference’s success and ongoing innovation across sectors.