Japanese Lawmaker Urges Japan to Consider Adopting Bitcoin as a Strategic Reserve Asset

A Japanese lawmaker has called on the government to explore the creation of a national Bitcoin reserve, citing global movements towards adopting Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset.

Satoshi Hamada, a minority lawmaker, offered the proposal in response to similar discussions emerging in countries like the United States, Argentina, Russia, and Brazil.

Japanese Lawmaker Bitcoin Reserve Proposal

Satoshi Hamada, a member of Japan’s House of Councillors from the Party to Protect the People from NHK, submitted a written question “regarding the creation of a reserve fund for crypto assets,” urging the government to consider investing a portion of its foreign exchange reserves into Bitcoin.

He particularly pointed to recent developments in the United States, where the incoming pro-crypto Trump administration is expected to appoint a crypto “czar” to advance digital asset policies. He also referenced Brazil’s ongoing discussions on Bitcoin’s inclusion in national reserves.

Hamada’s inquiry highlights the growing trend of governments and institutional investors beginning to view Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset, especially during periods of volatility and inflation.

Furthermore, Hamada emphasized Bitcoin’s decentralized nature and neutrality as its key advantages. Unlike traditional fiat currencies, BTC is not subject to the control or influence of specific governments or institutions. This makes the asset unique as it can support national economic activity without relying on any particular foreign currency.

According to Hamada, adopting Bitcoin as part of Japan’s strategic reserves would allow the country to diversify its assets while enhancing economic resilience.

Institutional and Political Bitcoin Sentiment

Although Hamada’s party holds only two parliamentary seats, his proposal comes amid rising interest in Bitcoin and altcoins across Japan. Some lawmakers have already expressed support for reforms that could transform Japan into a global crypto hub.

Similarly, Japan’s business sector has begun embracing Bitcoin, with several firms investing in BTC and other cryptocurrencies to bolster their balance sheets. This growing private-sector adoption highlights the increasing importance of digital assets in the national economy.

However, despite mounting support for Bitcoin adoption, Japan’s crypto market faces regulatory challenges. The country’s strict and cautious policies have limited the sector’s growth, causing frustration among investors and businesses.

Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who assumed office on 1 October 2024, is yet to show interest in accelerating crypto-friendly reforms. Nevertheless, Hamada’s initiative could spark further debate among lawmakers and policymakers about the role of digital assets in Japan’s economic strategy.