Japan's benchmark 10-year government bond yield rose to 2.230 percent in Tokyo trading on January 19, 2026, reaching its highest level since February 1999 in 27 years. The increase stems from concerns about worsening fiscal health ahead of a House of Representatives election. Pledges for consumption tax cuts by major parties are raising fears of more bond issuance.
In Tokyo's interdealer bond trading on the morning of January 19, 2026, the yield on Japan's 10-year government bond (JGB) climbed to 2.230 percent, its highest since February 1999 and a 27-year peak. The rise mirrors market worries that Japan's fiscal position could weaken further under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's administration, especially with an upcoming election for the House of Representatives. Investors fear increased JGB issuance as major political parties are expected to promise consumption tax cuts in their campaigns.
On Sunday, January 18, Shunichi Suzuki, secretary-general of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, signaled openness to including a temporary zero-rate consumption tax on food items in the party's platform. This has heightened caution among market participants.
Meanwhile, Japan's Nikkei 225 stock average shed more than 800 points in early Monday trading, partly due to the yen's appreciation against the dollar. At 10 a.m. in Tokyo forex, the dollar traded at 157.47-47 yen, down from 158.16-17 yen late Friday.
These developments highlight the interplay between Japan's interest rate environment and political risks, with investors closely watching the election outcome and fiscal policies ahead.
