News

The Japanese government has begun releasing its massive stockpile of rice to combat record-high prices, aiming to alleviate the burden on consumers and stabilize the market. The first batch of 12 tons was removed from storage on March 18th, with further releases and an additional auction planned in the coming weeks.

Despite billions in government subsidies and the development of industrial parks in Fukushima, most workers remain hesitant to return, leaving the region struggling to recover from the nuclear disaster. The government's continued support is crucial, but long-term solutions beyond job creation are needed to attract and retain residents.

A collaborative project led by Nagoya University and Sharp Corp. is testing the use of a humanoid robot named Robohon as a copilot to help elderly drivers avoid traffic violations and improve safety. The project, which has shown promising results in initial trials, aims to commercialize a driving assistance system featuring Robohon by the end of March 2027.

Japan's Lower House passed the initial budget for fiscal 2025, marking a victory for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and his minority government. The budget includes the largest general account ever and revisions to provide free high school education, secured with the support of the opposition Nippon Ishin party.

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 restructuring plan in response to a $47 billion takeover bid and investor pressure. The company aims to fend off the bid, improve capital allocation, and pursue an independent path to recovery under Dacus' leadership.