Japan's Takaichi backs $2.3tn growth drive despite market unease

Prime minister says country hasn't 'escaped deflation' despite rising prices

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi speaks during a news conference at the prime minister’s office in Tokyo on July 27. (Photo by Takashi Miyazaki)

TOKYO -- Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has defended her 370 trillion yen ($2.3 trillion) growth drive against mounting market concerns, insisting it will strengthen the economy rather than unleash unchecked spending.