Yoji Muto

Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry

Mr. Muto Yoji was reappointed Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) on November 11, 2024. He also assumes the positions of Minister in charge of the Response to the Economic Impact caused by the Nuclear Accident, Minister for Green Transformation, Minister in charge of Industrial Competitiveness, and Minister of State for the Nuclear Damage Compensation and Decommissioning Facilitation Corporation. Mr. Muto’s reappointment extends his tenure as METI Minister which started in October 2024.

Immediately prior to becoming METI Minister, Mr. Muto served as Director, Committee on Rules and Administration, a senior role in the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). During his long career in public policy, Mr. Muto has served in several senior positions in the LDP and in government agencies. Notable roles in government agencies include State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry / Director-General of Local Nuclear Emergency Response Headquarters / State Minister of Cabinet Office and State Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Mr. Muto was first elected to public office in 2005, successfully winning reelection five times. He serves as a member of House of Representatives representing Gifu Prefecture 3rd Electoral District.

Prior to seeking elected office, Mr. Muto worked in the private sector starting his professional career at Fuji Photo Film Co. Ltd. He also served in leadership roles at companies in Gifu Prefecture.

A graduate of Keio University’s Faculty of Business and Commerce, Mr. Muto was born in Gifu Prefecture on October 18, 1955.