Japan's government proposes cutting food consumption tax from 8% to 1%, potentially saving families 60,000 yen yearly. However, economists warn companies may raise prices during the transition, making actual benefits uncertain.
JR Tokai and Shizuoka Prefecture signed an environmental agreement on July 18, 2026, ending years of deadlock and allowing Linear Shinkansen construction to proceed through the prefecture.
Apple increased iPhone prices in Japan by approximately 10% on July 18, 2026, due to yen weakness. Even budget models now exceed 100,000 yen, prompting increased demand for used devices.
JAL submitted new alcohol prevention measures to transport authorities after two crew members violated drinking rules in May, causing flight delays. The airline will implement online alcohol testing before duty.
Japan's government will decide by early August whether to reduce consumption tax on food items, potentially lowering rates from 10% to 9%. The decision comes after cross-party talks failed to reach consensus.
Japan's Diet extended its session to July 25 after passing Imperial Household Law amendments allowing adoption of male heirs from former imperial families, despite 85% public support for female emperors.
Record rainfall on July 17 caused evacuations for over 100,000 people in Tochigi and Gunma. Linear precipitation bands produced 100mm/hour rainfall, triggering Level 5 emergency alerts and river flooding.
Japan's working group agrees on income-based benefits by 2029, but consumption tax reduction on food remains stalled despite Prime Minister's support. Local governors demand financial protections.
Japan's single elderly households reached a record 9.3 million, the highest since 1986. This demographic shift impacts housing, healthcare jobs, and community life for foreign residents.
Working mothers now comprise 81.2% of households with children under 18 in Japan, a record high. Despite average household incomes rising 7.3%, over half of families still report financial difficulties.
Nichirei confirmed a cyberattack disrupted its systems, causing food shortages at KFC, Aeon, and other major chains. Operations resume July 17, but full recovery may take months.
Over 4,500 people hospitalized for heatstroke in one week as temperatures hit 38°C across Japan. Extreme heat damaged Haneda Airport runway, causing flight disruptions. Authorities urge air conditioning use and hydration.
A severe heat wave is spreading across Japan, with temperatures exceeding 35°C. Authorities urge proper air conditioning use, frequent hydration, and workplace precautions to prevent heat stroke.