Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi Defends Cost-of-Living Policies

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi used the social media platform X on Friday to defend her administration against claims that it prioritizes political convictions over the cost-of-living crisis. Takaichi asserted that tackling rising prices is her government's top priority, detailing relief measures such as gasoline subsidies, child-rearing allowances, and free education.

The outreach follows fluctuating public sentiment. A late July Nikkei poll showed a 10 percentage point drop in approval ratings, though a more recent FNN survey indicated a slight increase to 62.5%. To support her position, Takaichi cited economic data showing inflation slowing to 1.7% and real wage growth accelerating to 1.7%.

While promoting immediate relief, Takaichi did not mention a cabinet-backed plan to lower the food sales tax to 1%. That specific measure requires parliamentary approval and would not take effect until April.