G7 Energy Security: Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi is set to propose a three-point global energy security framework at the G7—free and transparent trade, strategic oil reserves, and tighter producer-consumer cooperation—as Middle East tensions keep supply risk front and center. BOJ Watch: Ahead of the summit, the Bank of Japan is expected to raise rates to a 31-year high, with officials citing higher oil prices feeding into broader inflation. LNG Supply Stress: Australia’s tribunal rejected Inpex’s bid to stop a strike at the Ichthys LNG project, keeping a loading ban in place through June 23 and raising the odds of missed cargoes. Rare Earth Push: Japan plans a delegation to Greenland to assess rare-earth extraction potential and costs, aiming to reduce reliance on China. Tech for Industry: Europe and Japan are collaborating to push supercomputing performance via the HANAMI project, targeting advances from climate modeling to materials research. AI Integrity Tool: An Osaka startup’s “Puddin AI” system can flag human vs AI-written academic work, with Kyushu University piloting it. Tourism Finance: More Japanese local governments are adding accommodation taxes to fund tourism and manage visitor growth, with Yugawara among the early adopters. Consumer Demand: Chrome Hearts is seeing rising Japan demand from younger buyers, boosted by K-pop influence.