Japan's supplementary budget for the current fiscal year has been approved by the Diet, marking a significant step in the government's economic policy response to rising living costs. The budget, which passed the House of Councillors on December 16, 2025, with support from the Liberal Democratic Party, Ishin no Kai, Komeito, and the Democratic Party for the People, aims to deliver immediate relief to residents facing economic pressures, according to NHK. Prime Minister Takaichi has called on the National Governors' Association and local governments to cooperate in the swift implementation of the budget measures, emphasizing that delivering support to citizens as quickly as possible is a top priority. This coordinated approach between central and local governments will be crucial for foreign residents who may benefit from various support programs included in the economic package. One of the most discussed elements of the economic measures is the proposed "rice coupon" program, though its implementation has proven controversial. As of December 16, NHK's survey of prefectural capitals and Tokyo's 23 wards revealed that only Sumida Ward in Tokyo has confirmed it will distribute rice coupons. Twenty-four cities and wards have indicated they will not distribute the coupons, opting instead to implement alternative support measures tailored to their local populations. The rice coupon proposal has raised concerns about its potential impact on already elevated rice prices. Agriculture Minister Suzuki addressed these concerns, stating that the program would have minimal effect on rice prices, according to NHK. This reassurance comes as Japan continues to grapple with rice price inflation that has affected household budgets across the country, including those of foreign residents who rely on rice as a dietary staple. In a related development addressing rice supply issues, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has announced plans to reform the government's rice reserve system. The ministry presented proposals to the Liberal Democratic Party's agricultural committee to amend existing laws, allowing for faster release of emergency rice stocks. This change responds to previous delays in distributing reserve rice to the market when needed. Under the proposed reforms, privately stored rice held by commercial operators would be designated as part of the government's strategic reserves, enabling quicker market intervention during supply shortages. This structural change aims to prevent the supply bottlenecks that contributed to recent price spikes, potentially benefiting all residents, including the expat community. For foreign residents in Japan, these policy developments have several practical implications. First, while the supplementary budget includes various economic support measures, the actual benefits available will vary significantly by municipality. Expats should check with their local ward or city office to understand what specific programs are being implemented in their area, as the rice coupon example demonstrates that national policy suggestions do not guarantee uniform local implementation. Second, the government's focus on rice price stabilization through reserve system reforms suggests ongoing attention to food security and affordability. However, immediate price relief may not be forthcoming, as legislative changes and implementation will take time. Foreign residents should continue to budget for elevated rice prices in the near term. Third, the multi-party support for the supplementary budget indicates relatively broad political consensus on economic intervention, suggesting that support measures are likely to be implemented despite the minority government situation. This political stability around economic policy may provide some predictability for residents planning their finances. As these policies roll out over the coming months, expats should monitor announcements from their local governments and stay informed about eligibility requirements for any support programs. While language barriers may pose challenges, many municipalities provide information in multiple languages for foreign residents, and consulting with local international centers or expat support organizations can help navigate available resources.