Secondary Capital Push: Japan plans to unveil in October new rules for “secondary capital” sites meant to keep government functions running during major disasters, with tax breaks and deregulation and criteria focused on lower simultaneous risk with Tokyo. Energy Security Overhaul: Tokyo is drafting a Middle East-focused energy package, including support for oil pipelines that bypass the Strait of Hormuz and a push for more nuclear power, with a new GX strategy due by year-end. Cancer Breakthrough: A virus-based esophageal cancer therapy, Telomelysin, has gone on sale in Japan—marketed as the world’s first practical viral-therapy use for this cancer type. Disaster Response & Safety: In Chiba, condo residents helped restore power after days of outages following extreme rain; separately, Japan will reuse Fukushima cleanup soil in flowerbeds and public works in Sendai and Saitama ahead of a 2045 disposal deadline. Counterterrorism & Drones: The Cabinet adopted a chemical-terror plan and set up new advisory bodies, while critics warn the structure still lacks real drone interception power. Digital & Finance: Japan is moving toward blockchain-based real-time settlement for stocks and JGBs by the early 2030s. Tech Law Pressure: App developers say Apple/Google terms make Japan’s alternative app rules financially irrational, urging tougher Fair Trade Commission enforcement. Sports & Culture: Japan beat the Philippines 3-0 in the Women’s Baseball World Cup opener; and a 360-tonne castle keep in Aomori was pulled back into place by 1,800 volunteers.