Japan Ruling Parties Pledge Cash Handouts for Election

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and coalition partner Komeito have agreed to include cash handouts in their campaign pledges for the upcoming July Upper House election, aiming to provide immediate relief from inflation. The proposal calls for a uniform handout of at least 20,000 yen per resident, with additional payments for low-income households, funded by a surplus in 2024 tax revenues. The coalition is debating whether to implement income limits and considering both digital platforms like Myna Points and direct cash for distribution. Meanwhile, the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP) is advocating a temporary suspension of the 8% consumption tax on food along with a similar cash payment. The LDP has rejected the tax cut, citing fiscal concerns, and is positioning the handout as an alternative. These policies come as parties seek to address public discontent over rising living costs before the election.