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Japan to build evacuation shelters in light of Taiwan tensions

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 28 June 2025, Saturday  | Vol 2 No. 133
Japan to build evacuation shelters in light of Taiwan tensions
On 28 June, The Japan Times reported on their plan to construct evacuation shelters at the westernmost island of Yonaguni in the Okinawa Prefecture. The shelter will be completed by spring 2028, and the shelters will be built in five municipalities in Japan. This urgency came in light of a possible emergency need over the Taiwan issue near the Nansei southwestern island. The underground shelters aim to accommodate local residents for two weeks in the event of an invasion. The town of Yonaguni shelter can hold 200 people; other shelters aim to have a capacity of 500 people. (“Japan aims to complete Yonaguni evacuation shelter in 2028,” The Japan Times, 28 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 27 June 2025, Friday | Vol 2 No. 132
Japan enacts capital punishment for the “Twitter killer,” reports BBC 
On 27 June, the BBC reported that Japan executed a man accused of serial killing between 2017 to 2022. He was dubbed the “Twitter Killer.” The detained Takahiro Shiraishi lured his victims, most of them young women, to his apartments, after which he would strangle or dismember them. This crime came into light when body parts were found in the Japanese city of Zama. Shiraishi admitted that all the victims were suicidal and that he connected to them through Twitter now X. He told the victims that he would help them die and told them that he would kill himself with them. Most victims from between 15-26, and mostly women. His lawyers argued that his victims gave him consent to kill them and therefore called for an assessment of his mental state. (“Japan executes 'Twitter killer' who murdered nine,” BBC, 27 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 26 June 2025, Thursday | Vol 2 No. 131
US President Donald Trump gets golden shares in the US-Japan Nippon Steel deal
On 26 June, Japan Today reported that, according to the US Securities and Exchange Commission, US President Trump will get the “golden share” in the deal with Japan-based Nippon Steel. As a part of the US national security agreement, this provision will present Trump with the power to appoint a board member and decision-making power that will affect the domestic steel production and competition with overseas producers. According to the filings, either Trump or someone he designates will be the decision maker, and this power will revert to the Treasury Department and the Commerce Department when anyone else becomes the president. The Pittsburgh-based US Steel's buyout of USD 15 billion of Nippon Steel makes it a substantial subsidiary. (Marc Levy, “Trump gets ‘golden share’ power in U.S. Steel buyout, but U.S. agencies will get it under future presidents,” Japan Today, 26 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 25 June 2025, Wednesday | Vol 2 No. 130
Japan protests against the installation of a Chinese structure in the East China Sea, reports Reuters
On 24 June, Reuters reported the protests of Japan against the construction of a new structure in the East China Sea, which is located west of the geographical median line between the countries. Tokyo expressed strong condemnation against such unilateral advancement of development despite unresolved maritime boundaries and criticised such an action as “extremely regrettable”. Japan urged China to return to negotiations based on the 2008 bilateral agreement for joint development of natural resources in the disputed waters and calls to halt the new construction. This action by China has escalated the long-standing dispute between the two countries over a chain of Islands known as Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China. The incident highlights the long-standing friction in regional geopolitics and resource competition in the East China Sea. (“Japan protests against new Chinese structure in East China Sea,” Reuters,25 June 2025)

Japan conducts its first missile test in its territory, reported Japan Today
On 25 June, Japan Today reported Japan’s first-ever missile test on its territory on 24 June, marking a milestone in military modernisation. In the northernmost island of Hokkaido at the Shinzunai Anti-Air Firing Range, the ground self-defence force launched a Type 88 surface-ship missile which targeted a crewless vessel 40km offshore. Due to Space and safety concerns, such tests were held in the US or Australia. The successful tests highlight Japan’s pragmatic shift towards a self-reliant defence capability amidst the assertive naval activities of China along its coasts. The test is a result of Japan’s 20222 defence overhaul, which moves beyond post-World War two defence pacifism, identifying China as its top rival. The country is also acquiring US-made Tomahawk cruise missiles and developing a longer-range Type-12 missile. Japan is also planning to establish a missile range on Japan’s easternmost island, where recent Chinese aircraft carriers were spotted. (“Japan conducts its first missile test on its own territory,” Japan Today, 25 June 2025)
 

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 24 June 2025, Tuesday | Vol 2 No. 129
Japan’s ruling LDP defeat in the Tokyo assembly election is a setback for the party, says an editorial in the Asia News Network
On 24 June, Asia News Network editorial stated that Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party suffered a major defeat in the Tokyo assembly election held on 22 June. The loss signals serious challenges for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s Cabinet ahead of the upper house election this summer. The party hoped to recover public trust, but voter dissatisfaction with high prices and recent political scandals appears to have hurt the party’s standing. The editorial noted that the LDP’s campaign included a revived cash handout plan failed to gain support. A political funds scandal involving unreported income added to the public’s discontent. Coalition partner Komeito withdrew support for some LDP candidates and also lost seats, raising concern within the ruling bloc. Former minister Shinji Inoue admitted that the party’s economic message did not reach voters. The editorial believes the LDP must act quickly to avoid further losses in the national election. The result is seen as a warning from voters and a call for stronger leadership and clearer solutions to the inflation. (“Japan’s ruling party in crisis ahead of Upper House election after crushing defeat in Tokyo polls,” Asia News Network, 24 June 2025)

Japan sets Upper House election date to 20 July
On 24 June, The Japan Times reported that Japan will hold an election for the Upper House on 20 July. The campaign will officially begin on 3 July. The voters will choose 125 of the 248 members in the House of Councilors, with 75 seats from constituencies and 50 through proportional representation. Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stated that his ruling coalition aims to win a majority. The bloc must secure at least 50 seats to meet this goal. The election campaign will focus on inflation and political funding concerns. Opposition parties plan to challenge the ruling coalition, which lost its majority in the Lower House last year. Ishiba has called for stability and economic reform. (Jiji, “Japan sets Upper House election for July 20,” The Japan Times, 24 June 2025)
 
Japan Reader Daily Wire | 23 June 2025, Monday | Vol 2 No. 128
Official Security Assistance of Japan extends defence equipment sale to eight countries, reports Asian News
On 23 June, Asian News reported that Japan seeks to strengthen the security capacities of like-minded countries by providing defence equipment to eight countries under its Official Security Assistance program. The official recipients are strategically located in the ASEAN and Pacific regions amidst the growing influence of China. The eight recipient countries include Thailand, the Philippines, Tonga, Indonesia, Malaysia, East Timor, Sri Lanka, and Papua New Guinea, which reflects Japan’s broader strategy to strengthen partnerships with countries that share democratic values and are located at critical maritime junctures. The traditional Official Development Assistance was limited to non-military aid; this time, the aid is directly supporting military forces with an estimated cost of 8 billion yen. The assistance includes domestically manufactured drones, high-speed patrol boats, surveillance radar, and equipment for disaster response, search, and rescue operations. This aid aims to strengthen regional stability amidst tensions in the Indo-Pacific. (“Japan to provide defence equipment to 8 countries under OSA,” Asian News, 23 June 2025)
 
Japan’s plea to de-escalate conflict in Iran, reports Reuters
On 23 June, Reuters reported Japan’s plea to de-escalate the conflict in the Middle East and halt the extremely regrettable cycles of actions and counteractions. Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya considers the US strike on Iran as a necessary action to deter Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and hopes for renewed political dialogue between the US and Iran to facilitate nuclear negotiations. This action of obliterating Nuclear sites in Iran by the US in a joint action with Israel is considered the most deadly Western military strike since 1979. Japan’s cabinet chief secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi distinguished US strikes from Iran as the US continues to pursue diplomacy to facilitate negotiations in nuclear talks with Iran. Japan urges diplomatic dialogue and negotiation to foster de-escalation in the Middle East. (“Japan calls for de-escalation of Iran conflict,” Reuters, 23 June 2025)
 
Japan Reader Daily Wire | 20- 21 June 2025, Friday-Saturday | Vol 2 No. 126 & 127
Joint military and naval drills by the US, Philippines, and Japan
On 19 June, The Daily Sentinel reports that Japan, the US, and the Philippines are conducting joint coast guard drills in Japan's southwest coast. This movement highlights the strength of cooperation between these countries amidst rising tension from China. Naval exercises such as vessel cooperation and rescue operations aim to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific. Chinese vessels have been routinely sighted in the contested islands, raising concerns about accidental conflicts. The drill is a response to Beijing’s expanding ambitions, particularly the recent close aerial encounters and presence of Chinese aircraft carriers. (“Japan-US-Philippines hold coast guard drills with eye on China,” The Daily Sentinel, 19 June 2025)

Japan to expand security aid to eight nations, reports Japan Today
On 21 June, Japan Today reported that Japan will give defence equipment to Thailand, Tonga, and six other countries this year as part of its growing security aid program. The plan is meant to help keep sea routes safe in the Indo-Pacific, where China is increasing its military presence. Other nations set to receive aid include East Timor, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka. Japan may provide drones for use in disaster response and maritime patrols. The aid comes under Japan’s official security assistance program, launched in 2023 to support friendly nations. Japan gave rescue boats and equipment to Fiji in May under the same plan. The government has increased its budget for this program to over 8 billion yen in 2025. It says strong cooperation with regional partners is important for peace and safety. (“Japan to provide defence equipment to Thailand, 7 other nations,” Japan Today, 21 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 18 June 2025, Wednesday | Vol.2 No. 124
Honda to develop suborbital spaceflight by 2029
On 18 June, Japan Today reported the surprise announcement by the Japanese company, Honda, about its successful launch and landing test of a reusable suborbital rocket on 17 June. A suborbital launch has the capability to touch the verge of outer space but does not enter orbit. The reusable launch vehicles have been the driver of emerging commercial space missions over the past decade, led by the US, China, and Europe. In 2021, the company stated its research efforts to study space technologies and reusable rockets and emphasized the potential to contribute to the everyday lives of people by launching satellites with its own rockets. Japan’s second-largest carmaker, Honda’s Research and development wing, has successfully landed a 6.3-meter experimental reusable spacecraft after reaching an altitude of 271 meters at its test facility in Taiki. Japan’s government has also introduced a multibillion-dollar space venture to subsidize private rockets and satellites. This venture is aimed at doubling Japan’s space industry to 8 trillion yen by the early 2030s. (“Honda conducts reusable rocket test; aims for space flight by 2029,” Japan Today, 18 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 13-16 June 2025, Friday-Monday | Vol.2 No. 121 & 122
US President approves Nippon Steel’s USD 14.8 billion merger with US Steel
On 16 June, The Japan Times reported that US President Donald Trump has formally approved Nippon Steel’s USD 14.9 billion acquisition of US Steel, ending an 18-month saga marked by union opposition and two national security reviews. Trump signed an executive order allowing the deal, contingent on the companies signing a national security agreement with the Treasury Department. The deal includes USD 11 billion in US investments by 2028, a US government-held “golden share” ensuring oversight, and commitments on production, leadership, and trade. The merger creates the world’s second-largest steelmaker and strengthens the US steel industry’s ability to support infrastructure and the energy grid. The companies plan to invest an additional USD three billion post-2028. However, concerns remain over how much management control the US will exert, with the golden share granting influence over board seats and leadership roles, though not equity ownership. The deal, originally blocked by former US President Joe Biden, was revived under Trump’s administration with a renewed national security review. It is expected to close by 18 June. Japan's government welcomed the approval, seeing it as a boost to US-Japan industrial ties and innovation. (“Trump gives formal blessing to Nippon Steel's $14.8 billion bid for U.S. Steel,” The Japan Times, 16 June 2025)

China criticizes “dangerous behavior” maneuvers by Japan after an aircraft clash
On 12 June, Beijing criticized Japan for what it called “dangerous behavior” by a Japanese military plane over the Pacific. This move came after Chinese J-15 fighter jets flew dangerously close to Japanese P-3C patrol planes over the Pacific on 08 & 09 June, staying within 45 meters for 40 and 80 minutes, respectively. On 08 June, Chinese jets also crossed just 900 meters ahead of a Japanese plane at the same altitude. Japan’s military chief Yoshihide Yoshida stated that the actions were intentional, not mistakes. China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian blamed Japan for risky behavior by spying on China’s routine military activity. Japan warned that such close encounters risk accidents, and government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi expressed serious concern. US Ambassador George Glass criticized China’s actions as dangerous and reckless. The tensions follow sightings of two Chinese aircraft carriers operating together in the Pacific, which Japan highlighted China’s growing military reach. The Director of the University of Tokyo's economic security and policy innovation program, Daisuke Kawai, stated that the timing may be linked to current US-China trade tensions. (“Japan, China trade barbs over fighter jet maneuvers,” Japan Today, 13 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 12 June 2025, Thursday | Vol.2 No. 120
Japan warns China after a fighter jet flies too close to an MSDF patrol plane
On 11 June, Japan warned China after a Chinese J-15 fighter jet flew just 45 meters from a Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force patrol plane over the Pacific Ocean. On 08 & 09 June, China’s J-15 jet from the carrier Shandong flew dangerously close, just 900 meters in front of a Japanese MSDF plane. Japan’s Defense Ministry stated that such close moves could cause a dangerous collision. Japan has expressed “serious concerns” and has asked China to stop these unsafe flights. Two Chinese jets, performing military drills near Japan, took off from the aircraft carriers Shandong and Liaoning. It is the first time both Chinese carriers have been seen operating together in the Pacific. The Shandong carried out takeoff and landing drills inside Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone, while the Liaoning was also spotted nearby before moving beyond the area. Japan is closely watching China's growing military activity in the region. (“Chinese fighter jet has near miss with SDF patrol plane: Japan gov't,” Japan Today, 12 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 11 June 2025, Wednesday | Vol.2 No. 119
Japan’s personal data leaks reach a record high of 21000 cases, reports Japan Today
On 11 June, Japan Today reported on the increase of personal data leaks in Japan that have surged to a record 21,007 cases in fiscal year 2024, more than double from the previous year. The 58 per cent rise highlights growing vulnerabilities in both the public and private sectors. A significant portion of 2745 cases stemmed from unauthorized access to records on servers operated by MKSystem Corp., which supplies software to labor and social security attorney offices. The private sector accounted for 19,056 breaches, a 57 per cent increase from fiscal 2023. Although only one company faced a formal recommendation for corrective action due to a serious legal violation, down from three the previous year, the number of companies receiving guidance or advice rose by 19 per cent to 395 cases. Public sector leaks also grew sharply, up 68 per cent to 1,951 cases, with most incidents attributed to human errors such as the incorrect delivery of documents. Reports involving Japan’s My Number national ID system spiked more than sixfold to 2,052 cases. Of these, 1726 were linked to improper access via MKSystem’s software. The rise reflects both an increase in breaches and heightened awareness among companies regarding their obligation to report data leaks, pointing to urgent needs for stronger cybersecurity measures across sectors. (“Japan personal data leaks double in FY2024 to record 21,000 cases,” Japan Today, 11 June 2025)
 
Japan’s residents from foreign countries speak up against racial profiling, reports Japan Today
On 11 June, Japan Today reported that Japan’s residents with foreign roots are increasingly speaking out against racial profiling by police, challenging a practice long hidden from public scrutiny. Zain Syed, a naturalized Japanese citizen of Pakistani descent, has been stopped by police at least 15 times. A 2025 survey backed their claims, revealing that over 71 per cent of foreigners living in Japan for more than five years had been stopped by police 5.6 times more than Japanese citizens, despite similar crime rates between the groups. Official data confirms the parity that both Japanese and foreigners faced criminal investigations at a rate of 0.15 per cent in 2020. Public concern rose after incidents like a viral 2021 video where a police officer linked dreadlocks to drug possession, prompting the National Police Agency to advise against profiling based on appearance. However, internal reviews still uncovered discriminatory justifications such as “foreigners rarely drive cars.” Legal advocates stress the court’s role in ending systemic bias, though progress may be slow amid rising xenophobia tied to overtourism and immigration anxieties. (Junko Horiuchi, “Japan residents with foreign roots raise voices over racial profiling,” Japan Today, 11 June 2025) 

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 09 June 2025, Monday | Vol.2 No. 117
Japan to deny entry to foreigners who fail to pay medical bills
On 06 June, The Japan Times reported that Japan’s government revised its policy on foreign residents and visitors. It includes denying entry to foreign tourists who fail to pay medical fees during visits to Japan and rejecting visa extensions for foreign nationals who fail to pay premiums for the national healthcare and pension systems. The details of when and how it will be implemented are yet to be decided. Japan’s PM Shigeru Ishiba said: “If our current systems are unable to address the realities of globalisation and fail to dispel public anxiety, then drastic reforms must be undertaken.” The government plans to check that social welfare premiums have been paid by the host organisation employing foreign workers with a specified skilled worker residential status. According to the revised policy, if there is a certain amount of unpaid premiums, they will not be allowed to employ those workers. (Karin Kaneko, “Foreign tourists with unpaid medical bills in Japan to be denied entry,” The Japan Times, 06 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 05 June 2025, Thursday | Vol.2 No. 115
Japan records the lowest birth rates, fewer than 700,000 births in 2024
On 05 June, Japan Today reported on Japan recording fewer than 700,000 births in 2024 for the first time since data collection began in 1899, with only 686,061 newborns, that is 41,000 fewer than the previous year. The nation's total fertility rate also dropped to a historic low of 1.15, as Japan struggles with a rapidly aging population, second only to Monaco. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba described the trend as a “quiet emergency” and vowed to introduce family-friendly policies like flexible work hours to encourage childbirth. The decline in births is compounded by rising deaths, which reached 1.6 million in 2024, and an increasingly isolated rural population. Recent demographic shifts are contributing to severe labor shortages, exacerbated by Japan's tight immigration policies. Ishiba emphasized the need to revitalize rural areas, where depopulation is especially acute. Meanwhile, neighboring South Korea recorded an even lower fertility rate of 0.75 in 2024, though it saw a slight increase from the previous year due to a rise in marriages. Both countries continue to grapple with the socio-economic fallout of shrinking and aging populations. (“Japan births in 2024 fall below 700,000 for first time,” Japan Today, 05 June 2025)
 
Japan to enforce tougher rules and tax hikes on foreign residents and tourists, reports Japan Times
On 05 June, The Japan Times reported that Japan is reassessing immigration and tourism policies. On 21 May, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) launched a panel to address public concerns over foreign residents, where the LDP policy chief, Itsunori Onodera, said: “We need to comprehensively discuss what the people are concerned about.” The LDP plans to propose a centralized government body to coordinate foreign resident policies across ministries. Key reforms under debate include tightening foreign driver’s license conversions after concerns over accidents and abuse of loopholes. The National Police Agency plans stricter exams and will require resident registration documents. Meanwhile, unpaid health care premiums by foreign residents have drawn criticism. In Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ward alone, over JPY 1.1 billion went unpaid in a year. Opposition lawmaker Hirofumi Yanagase said: “It’s a serious burden on local governments,” with unpaid premiums potentially exceeding JPY 400 billion nationwide. The tax-free shopping system also faces scrutiny after reports of reselling and tax evasion. From November 2026, tourists must pay the 10 per cent tax upfront and apply for refunds at airports. Additionally, a hike in the JPY 1,000 departure tax, possibly targeting only foreigners, is under discussion. Finally, naturalization rules may be tightened. Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki said: “It would be inappropriate if naturalization were easier than permanent residency.” (Jessica Speed, “Japan eyes tougher rules and a tax hike for foreign residents and tourists,” The Japan Times, 05 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 04 June 2025, Wednesday | Vol.2 No. 114
Speculations surrounding a possible no-confidence motion, reports Japan Today 
On 04 June, Japan Today reported on the political tensions rising in Japan as speculation grows that Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba may have to dissolve the House of Representatives if the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDPJ) files a no-confidence motion against his minority government. Although the ruling coalition (LDP and Komeito) no longer holds a majority in the lower house, Ishiba appears to be weighing a snap election as a preemptive move. CDPJ leader Yoshihiko Noda warned that Ishiba's willingness to dissolve parliament may indicate a disregard for political stability. Democratic Party for the People head, Yuichiro Tamaki, said at a press conference: "If Mr. Noda aims to realize a change of government, his party should submit a no-confidence motion,". Adding to the political uncertainty are pressing domestic issues such as rising rice prices due to a poor harvest, and tense foreign trade talks, with Ishiba trying to get US President Donald Trump to lower tariffs on Japanese goods. A dissolution of the lower house would lead to Japan’s second general election in a year, while a scheduled upper house election is also approaching this summer. At a press conference, Komeito Secretary General Makoto Nishida said: "We should seek voters' judgments for each house according to the length of the respective terms stipulated in the Constitution,". (“Japan party execs bracing for possibility of Diet dissolution,” Japan Today, 04 June 2025)

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 03 June 2025, Tuesday | Vol.2 No. 113
Japan’s Prime Minister to go for snap elections in case of a no-confidence motion, reports Japan Times
On 03 June, Japan Today reported that Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba may dissolve the House of Representatives and call a snap general election if the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDPJ) submits a no-confidence motion. As per law, if such a motion passes, Ishiba must either dissolve the lower house or resign with his cabinet within 10 days. Though Ishiba’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)-led coalition holds a minority in the lower house, he has signaled that a no-confidence motion would likely trigger dissolution. LDP Secretary General Hiroshi Moriyama has reportedly discussed the option with party leaders. A dissolution could pave the way for simultaneous elections for both the lower and upper houses, as the House of Councillors' vote is due this summer anyway. However, some government insiders remain cautious, citing Japan's current economic challenges, such as inflation and US trade tensions, as reasons to avoid a political vacuum that might alienate voters. In the last election, neither coalition nor opposition secured a majority in the lower house. Recently, the ruling coalition compromised on a pension reform bill, accepting a CDPJ proposal to ensure legislative progress before the parliament session ends on 22 June. (“Ishiba may seek snap election if no-confidence motion submitted,” Japan Today, 03 June 2025)
 
Japan’s baseball legend Shigeo Nagashima dies at 89
On 03 June, Japan Today reported that Shigeo Nagashima, a legendary figure in Japanese baseball and recipient of the People’s Honor Award, passed away at 89 due to pneumonia. Revered as “Mr. Giants,” Nagashima was a symbol of Japan’s postwar baseball golden age, rising to fame during the country’s rapid economic growth in the 1960s and 70s. As a key player for the Yomiuri Giants, he helped secure nine consecutive Japan Series titles (1965–1973) and captivated the nation alongside teammate Sadaharu Oh in the famous “O-N” duo. His emotional 1974 retirement and famous line, “My Giants are forever immortal,” remain cultural touchstones in Japan. He later managed the Giants, winning five pennants and two Japan Series titles, and was known for his charisma, motivational flair, and quirky catchphrases like “make drama.” (“Japanese baseball legend Shigeo Nagashima dies at 89,” Japan Today, 03 June 2025) 

Japan Reader Daily Wire | 02 June 2025, Monday | Vol.2 No. 112
Japan to conduct minister-level meeting to resolve rice shortage
On 02 June, The Japan Times reported that Japan is now moving swiftly to tackle a sharp surge in rice prices, with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announcing that a minister-level meeting will be convened as early as this week. The goal is to stabilize the supply and cost of the nation’s staple food, just weeks ahead of a crucial Upper House election. With rice prices having doubled up in some regions, public frustration is mounting. In response, the government released 300,000 metric tons of stockpiled rice last week. Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said: "With rice costing twice as much even 2.5 times as much in some regions as last year, it’s very important to steady that and stabilize the market,” in a same parliamentary session today. To ensure affordability, major retailers like Aeon and Don Quijote's parent company began selling this rice directly to consumers at reduced prices. Aeon, for instance, priced a five-kilogram bag at under JPY 2,000 compared to the JPY 4,200 market average.  Previous government efforts, such as auctioning rice from reserves since February, failed to curb soaring prices. The new strategy involves selling rice at a fixed price and bypassing traditional intermediaries like collection agencies and wholesalers. This direct approach is part of a broader push to alleviate consumer strain and prevent further erosion of support for the minority government ahead of the upcoming election in July. (Sakura Murakami, “Japan to set up minister-level meeting to address rice supplies,” The Japan Times, 02 June 2025)
 
Japan and South Korea to implement fast-track entry for tourists at 4 airports
On 02 June, Japan Today reported on the mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic normalization, Japan and South Korea launched dedicated immigration lanes for tourists from each other’s countries at four major airports starting 01 June. These lanes are designed to speed up the immigration process and improve travel convenience, reflecting efforts to strengthen people-to-people ties amid enduring historical tensions. The dedicated entry lanes will remain operational until 30 June at Japan’s Haneda (Tokyo) and Fukuoka airports, as well as South Korea’s Gimpo (Seoul) and Gimhae (Busan) airports. This marks the first time Japan has introduced immigration lanes reserved for travelers from a specific country, according to its Immigration Services Agency. Eligible travelers are those who have visited the other country within the past year and registered in advance. The initiative is part of broader efforts to deepen bilateral ties through cultural exchange and tourism. Despite historical disputes, Japan and South Korea remain top destinations for each other’s citizens, thanks in part to shared interests in K-pop, anime, dramas, and cuisine.  The measure also commemorates the 1965 treaty that restored diplomatic relations between the two countries following decades of estrangement after World War II. (“Japan, S Korea open tourist fast-track entry system at 4 airports,” Japan Times, 02 June 2025)