News

A nationwide survey by the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry found that most small businesses oppose the accelerated increase in the minimum wage, with many fearing closures and significant financial burdens. The survey also revealed concerns about the potential impact on rural businesses and the industrial and commercial infrastructure supporting them.

Former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, in a veiled criticism of President Trump's "America First" policies, called for international cooperation and support for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for global unity and adherence to multilateralism. He also urged Japan to play a more active role in promoting peace efforts.

Seven & i Holdings, the Japanese operator of the 7-Eleven convenience store chain, has appointed its first foreign CEO, Stephen Dacus, and announced a major business restructuring plan in response to a $47 billion takeover bid from Canadian Circle-K operator Alimentation Couche-Tard. The plan, unveiled after a tumultuous six months, aims to improve the company's financial position and fend off the takeover bid.

Scientists analyzing samples returned by NASA’s Osiris-Rex spacecraft from asteroid Bennu have found evidence of essential ingredients for life, such as amino acids and sodium-rich minerals. The findings support theories that asteroids might have delivered life's building blocks to Earth, suggesting early widespread water-rich environments suitable for life's origins.

The Ito family, founders of Seven & i Holdings Co., have abandoned their plan to buy out the company, effectively thwarting a hostile takeover bid by Canadian convenience store giant Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. The family's decision stems from their inability to secure the necessary funds for a formal offer, despite Couche-Tard's initial proposal of 7 trillion yen ($46.7 billion) last year.