The government's rollout of a new travel subsidy program aimed at boosting domestic tourism has hit a snag, with some travel-related firms having already spent allocated funds.
The Japan Tourism Agency is asking participating businesses across the country to review their budgets while also considering increasing funding for the program, dubbed the National Travel Discount.
Launched on Tuesday, the same day COVID-19 border controls were eased for international arrivals, the program provides the equivalent of up to ¥11,000 ($77) in discounts and coupons per traveler per day. The money can be used for meals, shopping and accommodation expenses.