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Taiwan releases Sanae Takaichi chocolates... Pro-Japan and Pro-Taiwan sentiment on the rise

• In Taiwan, interest and favorability toward Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi—who became famous for her 'intervention in a Taiwan contingency' remarks that pissed off China—are soaring. In an unusual consumer trend, Taiwanese food giant I-Mei Foods produced commemorative chocolates for her inauguration, which were initially distributed for free but have now moved to paid pre-orders due to high demand.

• This phenomenon shows that Takaichi is being recognized in Taiwanese society as a 'Japanese leader who publicly supports Taiwan,' spreading from politics into daily consumption. It highlights the strengthening pro-Japan vibe in Taiwan, alongside President Lai Ching-te’s public endorsement of Japanese seafood and Tigerair's Japan tourism campaigns.

• Meanwhile, even in Japan, a fan culture called 'Sana-katsu' (Sanae-activity) is spreading among young women. Analysts suggest her blunt way of speaking and hardline security stance are resonating with Taiwanese sentiment, turning her into a cultural icon beyond just a political figure.