
Business May 2, 2022
Japan consumer confidence edged up in April for first rise in six months
The government has kept its assessment of consumer confidence unchanged, as the improvement was relatively small, saying it appears weak.
For Kaori Kaneko's latest contributions to The Japan Times, see below:
The government has kept its assessment of consumer confidence unchanged, as the improvement was relatively small, saying it appears weak.
Komeito chief Natsuo Yamaguchi also urged the Bank of Japan to maintain its massive stimulus program "for a bit longer" to ensure a solid recovery in the economy.
It must also navigate increasingly choppy waters between China and Japan's closest ally, the U.S., which is at odds with Beijing over a range of issues.
Ruling-party lawmakers have likewise called for another stimulus package funded by a third extra budget.
As virus cases spiked in April, Japan temporarily eased restrictions on remote medical care, allowing doctors to conduct first-time visits online or by telephone.
The minister said Japan's priority should be on protecting jobs and businesses, not stimulating consumption and travel.
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