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Minister of Finance (Japan) facts for kids

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Minister of Finance
Goshichi no kiri.svg
Emblem of the Government of Japan
Shunichi Suzuki 20211004.jpg
Incumbent
Shunichi Suzuki
since 4 October 2021
Ministry of Finance
Style His Excellency
Member of Cabinet of Japan
National Security Council
Reports to Prime Minister of Japan
Appointer Prime Minister of Japan
attested to by the Emperor
Precursor "Treasury Minister" (大蔵大臣, Ōkura Daijin)
Formation January 6, 2001; 24 years ago (2001-01-06)
Deputy State Minister of Finance
Salary ¥20,916,000

The Minister of Finance (called Zaimu Daijin in Japanese) is a very important job in the Japanese government. This person is a member of the Cabinet of Japan, which is like the main team of leaders who help run the country. They are also the head of the Ministry of Finance.

The Minister of Finance is in charge of Japan's money matters. This includes things like the country's budget, taxes, and how the government spends its money. They also help make sure Japan's economy stays strong.

This minister is also part of the National Security Council. This group helps make big decisions about Japan's safety and defense. The Prime Minister of Japan chooses who will be the Minister of Finance. Then, the Emperor of Japan officially approves their appointment.

Before 2001, this role had a different Japanese name, Ōkura Daijin, which meant "Treasury Minister." Both the old and new names mean "Minister of Finance" in English. The current Minister of Finance is Shunichi Suzuki. He started his job on October 4, 2021.

What Does the Minister of Finance Do?

The Minister of Finance has many big responsibilities. They manage the country's money. This means they decide how much money the government will collect from taxes. They also decide how that money will be spent.

Managing the National Budget

One of the main jobs is creating the national budget. This is a plan for all the government's income and expenses. It's like a household budget, but for an entire country! The minister works to balance the money coming in with the money going out.

Overseeing the Economy

The minister also plays a key role in Japan's economy. They help set financial policies. These policies can affect prices, jobs, and how businesses operate. Their decisions can impact everyone in Japan.

International Financial Relations

Sometimes, the Minister of Finance represents Japan in global meetings. They talk with finance ministers from other countries. This helps Japan work with other nations on economic issues. It's important for trade and global stability.

How is the Minister Chosen?

The process of choosing the Minister of Finance is important. It involves the Prime Minister and the Emperor. This shows how serious and official the role is.

Nomination by the Prime Minister

First, the Prime Minister of Japan chooses a person for the job. The Prime Minister picks someone they trust. This person usually has a lot of experience in finance or politics. They need to be good at handling money matters.

Appointment by the Emperor

After the Prime Minister nominates someone, the Emperor of Japan officially appoints them. This is a formal step. It makes the appointment official and recognized by the country. The Emperor's role is mostly ceremonial.

History of the Role

The role of managing Japan's money has a long history. It has changed over time. The name of the position changed in 2001.

From Treasury Minister to Finance Minister

For many years, the position was called the "Treasury Minister." This name was used until 2001. After that, it became the "Minister of Finance." Even with the name change, the main responsibilities stayed the same. It's always been about managing Japan's money.

Images for kids

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    Takeo Kurusu

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    Tokutarō Kitamura

  • Sanroku Izumiyama

    Sanroku Izumiyama

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    Shinzō Ōya

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    Kakuei Tanaka

  • Takeo Fukuda 19761224

    Takeo Fukuda

  • Goshichi no kiri

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    Kiichi Aichi

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    Masayoshi Ōhira

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    Michio Watanabe

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    Toshiki Kaifu

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    Tsutomu Hata

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    Hirohisa Fujii

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    Hikaru Matsunaga

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    Masajuro Shiokawa

  • Tanigaki Sadakazu 1-2

    Sadakazu Tanigaki

  • Koji Omi

    Kōji Omi

  • Nukaga Fukushiro 1-2

    Fukushiro Nukaga

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    Yoshihiko Noda

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    Jun Azumi

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    Koriki Jojima

  • Tarō Asō 20170920

    Tarō Asō

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