May
01.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day BOJ Holds Rates While Yen Weakens

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The Bank of Japan maintained its policy rate at 0.5% while cutting economic growth and inflation forecasts for FY2025, partly due to uncertainties around U.S. tariffs. BOJ Governor Ueda emphasized that rate hike timing is "not necessarily delayed" despite economic concerns, causing the yen to weaken over 1% as markets recalibrated expectations.

The U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal was finalized after difficult negotiations, creating a new connection between Trump and Kyiv through joint resource development and a reconstruction fund.

Environmental initiatives gained prominence with JFE Engineering partnering with Sushiro and other restaurant chains to convert food waste into renewable energy for 2,300 stores, while Patagonia reoriented its business model toward climate action.

In Saitama, rescue workers recovered what appears to be the body of a driver missing in a sinkhole incident, concluding the search that had begun days earlier.
02.05.2025
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Friday
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Day US Framework Excludes Auto Tariffs

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Japan-US tariff negotiations intensified as the US presented a "framework proposal" excluding automobile and steel tariffs from discussions, drawing strong objection from Japan. Prime Minister Ishiba later declared Japan would "absolutely not accept" the auto tariffs exclusion.

Both countries agreed to accelerate talks toward a June summit agreement, with the next ministerial-level meeting scheduled for mid-May. This development follows yesterday's announcement of the Bank of Japan maintaining interest rates amid economic uncertainties partly caused by US tariff concerns.

Meanwhile, over 90 nations called for preserving atomic bomb memories at a UN preparatory meeting, continuing Japan's nuclear disarmament diplomacy.

Weather reports indicated heavy local rainfall from Kinki to Kanto regions with warnings of potentially severe conditions during Golden Week's second half, suggesting rapidly shifting weather patterns ahead.
03.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day of Japan's Firm Stand on Car Tariffs

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US-Japan trade tensions intensified as Japan took an uncompromising position on automobile tariffs. Economic Minister Akazawa declared that no agreement could be reached without revisiting car tariffs, with the Prime Minister demanding review of all tariffs. This hardened stance follows yesterday's rejection of the US framework that excluded auto tariffs from discussions.

Reports highlighted that over 50% of components in US-produced vehicles are imported, complicating tariff avoidance strategies for Japanese manufacturers after the US imposed 25% additional tariffs on auto parts.

International developments intertwined with domestic concerns as Australia's Albanese secured re-election by capitalizing on anti-Trump sentiment. Meanwhile, Trump continued pressuring the Federal Reserve for interest rate cuts while planning military parades for his birthday.

Constitutional revision discussions persisted, though analysis indicated that despite the Prime Minister's commitment to early amendment initiatives, actual revision remains distant.
04.05.2025
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Sunday
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Day of Buffett's Departure and China's Airspace Denial

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Warren Buffett's announced retirement as Berkshire Hathaway CEO dominated financial news, marking the end of an era for the investment world after 60 years of leadership that increased stock value 60,000-fold. The "North Star of American capitalism" announced his departure at a shareholders meeting in Omaha.

Territorial tensions escalated as Japan reported a Chinese Coast Guard helicopter violated airspace near the Senkaku Islands—the fourth such intrusion—with China later rejecting this assertion and instead blaming a Japanese civilian aircraft. This diplomatic incident occurs amid ongoing US-Japan trade negotiations over automobile tariffs, which remain contentious after Japan's firm rejection of the US framework proposal.

Domestic news revealed political finance improprieties with 20 governors implicated in mishandling organizational donations. Consumer concerns persisted with analysis of stubbornly high rice prices, while early "U-turn rush" traffic marked the conclusion of Golden Week holidays.
05.05.2025
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Monday
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Day of Rejected Tariff Exemption and Emperor Emeritus Hospitalization

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US-Japan trade tensions escalated as the US firmly rejected Japan's request for exemption from the "reciprocal" tariffs, continuing the trajectory from previous days when Japan objected to the US framework excluding automobile tariffs. This development threatens to influence Japan's upcoming Upper House election.

Emperor Emeritus Akihito was hospitalized with suspected myocardial ischemia, drawing national attention. Disaster preparedness concerns emerged with reports that 60% of municipalities lack essential supplies for potential Nankai Trough evacuations.

Morning reports highlighted growing ASEAN-plus-3 concerns about rising protectionism following US tariff announcements. Japan-India defense cooperation deepened with agreement on a new dialogue body. In corporate news, Warren Buffett will remain Berkshire Hathaway chairman after stepping down as CEO, with succession plans formalized following his retirement announcement yesterday.
06.05.2025
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Tuesday
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Day of Emperor Emeritus Heart Concern and Record US Trade Deficit

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Emperor Emeritus Akihito's hospitalization for suspected myocardial ischemia dominated early coverage, continuing from yesterday's initial reports. The former monarch underwent cardiac examinations as the nation followed developments with concern.

Economic reporting centered on the US recording its largest-ever trade deficit of $140.5 billion in March, exceeding market expectations as companies accelerated imports ahead of tariff increases. This news connects to ongoing US-Japan trade tensions from previous days.

Chinese industrial trends emerged with reports of seven major solar panel manufacturers posting their first combined loss since 2017 due to overproduction.

The morning coverage followed ongoing territorial tensions with China regarding Senkaku Islands airspace violations, while afternoon reporting highlighted Friedrich Mertz's election as Germany's new Chancellor after an unusual failed initial vote.
07.05.2025
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Wednesday
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Day of India-Pakistan Airstrikes and Japanese Pharma Consolidation

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The morning was dominated by reports of India's strikes against Pakistan following tourist killings in Kashmir, with Pakistan quickly retaliating and claiming to have downed five Indian aircraft. The UN expressed "serious concern" as both nuclear-armed nations appeared locked in escalating conflict, with Pakistan asserting its "right to avenge" civilian casualties.

In corporate Japan, Shionogi's acquisition of Japan Tobacco's pharmaceutical units for approximately $1.1 billion marked significant industry consolidation as JT exits the drug business due to high research costs. A Tokyo court rejected Nidec's request to block Makino Milling Machine's defensive measures against a hostile takeover attempt.

Economic reporting highlighted record share buybacks by Japanese corporations totaling nearly 4 trillion yen supporting the stock market rebound. Concerns emerged about US-Japan stock markets recovering too quickly despite ongoing trade tensions, potentially causing the Federal Reserve to delay interest rate cuts.
08.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day Toyota Profit Forecast Falls Under Tariff Weight

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North Korea launched multiple short-range ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan early morning, with no damage reported as they fell outside Japan's exclusive economic zone.

Toyota dominated the day's coverage with its forecast of a 35% drop in fiscal year 2025-26 net profit, directly attributing the decline to Trump's tariff policies. The company has already suffered a 180 billion yen profit decline in April-May alone from these measures, which affect a market representing nearly a quarter of its sales.

The consumption tax reduction debate intensified as the Democratic Party for the People included it in their upcoming Upper House election platform. Economists and politicians increasingly discuss the proposal as a potential economic stimulus.

Trade tensions continued developing globally, with the US reaching its first tariff agreement with the UK, while the EU proposed retaliatory tariffs against the US worth approximately 15 trillion yen.
09.05.2025
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Friday
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Day American Pope Elected While North Korea Tests Missiles

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Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected the first US-born pope, taking the name Leo XIV, with early coverage examining his potential stance on LGBTQ+ rights. Trump offered congratulations to the new pontiff.

North Korea's missile tests for "nuclear counterattack" purposes gained attention as Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the drills, followed by reports of Putin embracing North Korean military personnel.

Economic news highlighted Mitsubishi Heavy Industries reaching a 10 trillion yen market capitalization for the first time, driven by defense and AI-related businesses. Panasonic announced plans to cut 10,000 jobs (4% of workforce) as part of restructuring efforts costing 130 billion yen. Nissan abandoned plans for an EV battery factory in Kitakyushu due to financial challenges.

Trade tensions continued with Japan's difficulties in tariff negotiations with the US contrasting with UK's success, while Trump suggested 80% tariffs on Chinese imports were appropriate.
10.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day of Nuclear Shadows and Diplomatic Dawn

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The India-Pakistan military conflict escalated dramatically in the early morning with both countries conducting strikes against military targets. Pakistan convened an emergency meeting regarding nuclear weapons management, raising global alarm. By midday, a surprising diplomatic breakthrough occurred when Trump announced both nations had agreed to an immediate ceasefire, with military leaders scheduled to meet on May 12.

Meanwhile, Japan initiated a public-private alliance to support Japanese companies' expansion into Africa, seemingly positioned as a counter to China's influence in the resource-rich region. The program will be officially announced at an economic conference in Ivory Coast on May 12.

Domestic concerns continued with reports that 39% of Japanese residents experience loneliness despite last year's isolation prevention law. The Emperor Emeritus was discharged from hospital with a diagnosis of asymptomatic myocardial ischemia, returning to his residence after four days.
11.05.2025
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Sunday
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Day of Fragile Ceasefires and Direct Negotiations

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The India-Pakistan ceasefire, brokered yesterday with US mediation, dominated early reporting but remained fragile as both nations accused each other of violations. Trump continued offering assistance while the US claimed credit for the diplomatic breakthrough.

By mid-morning, attention shifted to Prime Minister Ishiba's firm stance against US auto tariffs, vowing Japan would "stand its ground" in demanding their removal. This follows Toyota's reported 35% profit forecast drop directly attributed to these tariffs.

Russia proposed direct negotiations with Ukraine, with Zelensky reportedly supporting the initiative. This marks a potential diplomatic opening after years of conflict.

Economic coverage highlighted record inflows into high-risk US investment funds, raising concerns about market volatility. Domestically, Japan reported a significant 60% increase in Myanmar workers, with young people fleeing the coup finding opportunities in manufacturing and care sectors, quietly advancing Japan's immigration landscape despite traditional caution.
12.05.2025
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Monday
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Day US-China Trade Deal Cuts Tariffs

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The US-China trade breakthrough dominated headlines throughout the day, with both nations agreeing to slash mutual tariffs by 11.5 percentage points during a 90-day cooling-off period. This substantial development follows days of bilateral tariff tensions that had impacted global markets. The US will lower cumulative tariffs from 145% to 30%, while China will reduce from 125% to 10%.

Reports indicated Trump plans direct phone talks with President Xi, suggesting further diplomatic engagement. Markets responded positively, with Hong Kong stocks jumping 3%.

In domestic news, Japan recorded its largest-ever current account surplus at 30 trillion yen for the previous fiscal year. Corporate restructuring continued as Sharp announced selling its Kameyama No. 2 LCD factory to parent Foxconn due to declining profitability, while Nissan revealed plans to cut an additional 10,000 jobs domestically and internationally.

Prime Minister Ishiba announced pension reform legislation will be submitted by mid-May.
13.05.2025
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Tuesday
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Day Nissan Bleeds 20,000 Jobs

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The US-China trade agreement evolution dominated early coverage, with both nations agreeing to slash tariffs exceeding 100% for 90 days, representing a significant shift in the trade war that had been escalating in previous weeks. China confirmed it would reduce retaliatory tariffs starting May 14.

Nissan's crisis emerged as the day's central story, with multiple reports detailing the automaker's massive ¥670.9 billion ($4.5 billion) loss and drastic restructuring plans. The company announced closures of seven plants globally and 20,000 job cuts, significantly exceeding the 10,000 positions mentioned in previous reports, partly attributed to Trump's tariffs.

Government survey results revealed Japanese vulnerability to online misinformation, with approximately half of respondents believing false information encountered on social media. The Finance Minister acknowledged "inappropriate" omissions in Moritomo documents, while pension reform legislation preparations continued amid consumption tax emerging as a key issue for upcoming Upper House elections.
14.05.2025
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Wednesday
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Day Children's Mental Health Crisis Meets Defense Plane Crash

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Early morning newspapers revealed rural Japan's agricultural crisis, with farmers reportedly earning just 10 yen hourly. A new pterosaur species identification in Kumamoto followed shortly after, alongside reports of Japan's children ranking 32nd of 43 wealthy nations in mental health according to UNICEF. Financial markets news centered on the Tokyo Stock Exchange pursuing more affordable stocks for average investors.

Mid-morning brought urgent domestic reports of a Self-Defense Force training aircraft crash in an Aichi Prefecture lake with two crew members. The incident unfolded throughout the day with witnesses reporting loud booms and parts of the aircraft being discovered in the water.

International affairs coverage highlighted the US-China trade agreement's continued evolution, with reports specifying tariff reductions to 115%, while Japanese automakers calculated a potential ¥1 trillion impact from Trump's tariffs. The US issued worldwide restrictions on Huawei AI chips despite the recent trade truce.
15.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day of Crashed Planes and Rice Stockpiles

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The Self-Defense Force aircraft crash dominated early reporting, with names of personnel released and witnesses reporting the plane waved before departing, followed by reports of a rapid descent one minute after takeoff. This continues yesterday's coverage of the training jet crash near Nagoya.

Economic concerns featured prominently with Aeon Card suffering ¥9.9 billion in fraud losses due to security vulnerabilities, while wage increases stagnated at 5.49% despite improvements in real estate and transportation sectors. The government considered doubling rice stockpile releases to address surging prices.

In international affairs, US-Japan tariff talks may resume next week, while Ukraine-Russia negotiations prepared to restart without Putin, whom Zelensky criticized as sending only "decorative" representatives. Defense Ministry faced scrutiny over Israeli drones being considered for deployment potentially being used in Gaza attacks.
16.05.2025
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Friday
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Day GDP Shrinks as Russia-Ukraine Direct Talks Begin

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Japan's GDP contracted 0.7% annually in Q1, marking the first negative growth in four quarters due to weak consumer spending. This economic concern emerged alongside Toyota's strategic shift to a subscription model, allowing post-purchase safety feature installations across all models - a response to tariff pressures highlighted in previous days' Nissan coverage.

The government advanced legislation abolishing the ¥1.06 million income wall and launched an economic security clearance system despite privacy concerns. The Financial Services Agency moved to discipline insurance broker "Money Doctor" for prioritizing fee-generating products over customer needs.

Direct Russia-Ukraine negotiations began for the first time in three years, with reports describing visual tensions between representatives. Military developments continued with the discovery of human remains at the Self-Defense Force aircraft crash site reported yesterday.

Japan-South Korea relations improved with plans for a fast-track tourist entry system at four airports, marking their diplomatic anniversary.
17.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day Nissan Decides Fate of Its Birthplace

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Nissan's restructuring plans deepened as sources confirmed the automaker is considering closing two Kanagawa Prefecture plants, including its historic Oppama facility in the company's birthplace. The closures are part of a global reduction strategy that also targets two Mexican facilities, continuing the automotive industry struggles documented in previous days. The LDP Secretary-General and policy chief cautioned against consumption tax reduction proposals amid ongoing economic concerns, with Japan still reeling from the GDP contraction reported yesterday.

Reports emerged of potential improper handling of party ticket revenues by the Tokyo chapter of the LDP. A court ordered the government to disclose documents related to the Science Council of Japan in a transparency ruling. Meanwhile, Taiwan reportedly achieved its "zero nuclear power" goal today, while a historic sake brewery began offering courses to foreign sommeliers, highlighting Japan's cultural export efforts amid economic challenges.
18.05.2025
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Sunday
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Day Ishiba's Support Crumbles While Nissan Exits Homeland

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Morning reports revealed that 81% of Japanese feel "uneasy" about Trump's second presidency as he declared intentions to speak with Putin about ending the Ukraine conflict. Nissan's restructuring plans expanded beyond the previous day's considerations, now explicitly soliciting early retirements while eyeing plant closures in Japan, continuing the automotive industry's struggle amid economic headwinds.

Tokyo's office vacancy crisis intensified, with empty buildings increasing twelvefold over three years, particularly in waterfront areas, despite some post-COVID return to offices. By midday, the political situation deteriorated as Prime Minister Ishiba's approval rating hit a record low of 27.4%, reflecting growing domestic discontent.

International tensions escalated when China imposed anti-dumping tariffs against Japan, US, Taiwan and Europe, potentially part of a strategic "protracted war" using rare earth materials. Late afternoon reports indicated Israel launched a large-scale ground invasion of Gaza despite earlier news of resumed Hamas negotiations.
19.05.2025
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Monday
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Day Trump Tariffs Force National Calculations

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Trade tensions dominated early reporting as U.S. prepared region-based tariffs with specific demands for Japan to eliminate its 9 trillion yen trade surplus. Japanese media calculated this would require importing 72 times more American cars or eight years of rice production - highlighting the practical impossibility of these demands.

Security concerns emerged through coverage of random stabbing incidents, raising public fears about personal safety. The nuclear sector saw activity with Kyushu Electric announcing plans for both new nuclear plant construction and next-generation reactor development, while the government included fusion power in its national strategy, targeting demonstration by the 2030s.

A political crisis developed as Agriculture Minister Taku Eto faced criticism for claiming he receives abundant rice from supporters amid national shortages. By afternoon, he had retracted these comments while denying resignation, with the Prime Minister calling the remarks "extremely problematic."
20.05.2025
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Tuesday
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Day Agriculture Minister Falls as Bond Markets Tremble

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Morning coverage focused on Trump's retreat from Ukraine peace talks after Putin refused to compromise during their two-hour call, continuing the diplomatic pattern reported in previous days. Japan's Seven & i announced a partial sale of Seven Bank shares to Itochu, restructuring its financial operations amid ongoing corporate adjustments throughout Japan's economy.

By midday, Honda's decision to cut EV investments by 30% to 7 trillion yen represented another Japanese automotive pullback following Nissan's plant closure plans. The agriculture minister's rice comments from yesterday escalated into a full political crisis, with the prime minister deciding to dismiss him after opposition parties demanded his removal.

Afternoon reporting revealed "shockingly weak" ultra-long government bond auctions with 30-year and 40-year yields hitting record highs, as financial markets seemed increasingly concerned about Japan's fiscal position amid discussions of consumption tax cuts.
21.05.2025
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Wednesday
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Day Shinjiro Koizumi Inherits Rice Price Mandate

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Agriculture Minister Taku Eto resigned following his controversial comments about receiving free rice amid soaring consumer prices. Prime Minister Ishiba, whose administration began in October 2024, quickly appointed Shinjiro Koizumi as the new minister with former Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga reportedly influencing this decision.

By mid-morning, Ishiba promised to achieve rice prices of 3000 yen per 5kg, accepting responsibility if prices don't decrease. Koizumi immediately suspended reserve rice bidding processes, declaring he would "focus on rice" and release unlimited quantities from government stockpiles.

This political crisis unfolded against a backdrop of economic troubles, with Japanese bond yields soaring due to faltering investor demand. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts with South Korea continued as Japan announced fast-track entry for South Korean visitors to commemorate their 60th anniversary of normalized relations. Trump's automotive tariffs have begun affecting export prices while Nvidia's CEO criticized US export controls on AI chips.
22.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day Cabinet Support Hits Record Low Amid Rice Crisis Aftermath

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Early morning coverage focused on former Agriculture Minister Eto's dismissal mystery, continuing the rice scandal that led to Koizumi's appointment yesterday. By mid-morning, Koizumi faced immediate pressure to reduce rice prices, which Prime Minister Ishiba had promised to lower to 3000 yen per 5kg.

Meanwhile, the debate on separate surnames for married couples gained momentum with Hikaru Utada's new song supporting the option and the LDP drafting a proposal to allow maiden name use. Economic concerns deepened as listed companies forecast their first profit decline in six years due to US tariffs and yen appreciation.

By early afternoon, the Jiji news poll revealed cabinet support had fallen to a record low of 20.9%, reflecting the political cost of the rice crisis. The government began considering utility subsidies to reduce household electricity and gas bills by 1,000 yen monthly, suggesting attempts to address mounting economic pressures.
23.05.2025
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Friday
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Day Toyota Moves While Japan Navigates Trump Era

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Morning reports revealed Toyota's massive 6 trillion yen tender offer plan for Toyota Industries, showcasing corporate restructuring amid economic challenges. The Ishiba administration continued managing fallout from the rice crisis, with newly appointed Agriculture Minister Koizumi inspecting supermarkets while the prime minister arranged June talks with Trump characterized as a "milestone" for tariff negotiations.

Japanese businesses responded to Trump policies with divergent strategies: medical device makers like Terumo considered price increases while Olympus refused production relocation; Mitsui O.S.K. halted Chinese LNG carrier orders, shifting to South Korean shipyards; and Nissan explored selling its Yokohama headquarters to fund restructuring costs. Trump's policies extended beyond trade to education, with his Harvard foreign student ban causing concern among Asian students.

Former Prime Minister Kishida commented on potential coalition realignment, suggesting political maneuvering as cabinet support remains low following the rice price crisis.
24.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day Trump Reverses Nippon Steel Decision

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Trump's reversal on the Nippon Steel-US Steel acquisition dominated Japanese media throughout the day. Early morning reports confirmed Trump's approval of the previously contentious $14 billion deal, now carefully framed as a "partnership." Nippon Steel expressed "respect for Trump's wise decision," signaling diplomatic deference to the incoming administration.

The development comes as Japan-US tariff negotiations reach a "critical stage," with G7 agreements potentially in sight. These trade discussions represent a continued response to Trump's economic policies that have troubled Japanese manufacturers.

Meanwhile, domestic issues persisted. The government announced plans to allocate 390 billion yen from reserve funds to subsidize electricity and gas costs amid inflation concerns. Former minister Moriyama defended agricultural policy, stating "cheap rice isn't everything," as the administration continued managing fallout from the rice price crisis that precipitated former Agriculture Minister Eto's dismissal and contributed to cabinet support falling to 20.9%.
25.05.2025
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Sunday
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Day Rice Politics Define Electoral Landscape

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Morning reports revealed insect swarms plaguing the Osaka World Expo, creating health concerns among visitors. Agricultural policy dominated coverage throughout the day, with nearly 60% of Japanese expecting rice prices to fall under newly appointed Agriculture Minister Koizumi following his predecessor's dismissal in the ongoing rice crisis. The government announced formation of a "Rice Measures Team" and plans to restart agricultural reform meetings, directly responding to cabinet support remaining at a stagnant 34%.

Economic inequality emerged as a secondary theme, with reports highlighting disparities in children's sports participation due to rising costs, while comparing Japanese farming incomes to American counterparts earning up to 10 million yen annually. The Trump administration's cryptocurrency connections continued receiving attention, with reports that "Trump Coin" comprises 40% of family assets, creating concerns about unregulated influence channels as Japan prepares for upcoming trade negotiations and tariff discussions.
26.05.2025
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Monday
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Day Rice Reserves Hit Markets at Half Price

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Agricultural Minister Koizumi's rice price reduction strategy dominated coverage, with government rice reserves being released at a 47% discount to bring retail prices down to 2,000 yen per 5kg by early June. This direct market intervention follows the rice price scandal that led to the previous minister's dismissal. Rakuten announced a partnership with Japan Post to sell discounted government rice through its marketplace, while major retailers like AEON negotiate contracts to participate in the program.

Trump's position on the Nippon Steel-US Steel deal clarified, with assurances the company would remain under "American control" despite the acquisition, marking a significant development in Japan-US economic relations. Meanwhile, regulatory reforms surfaced with proposals to eliminate goodwill amortization requirements for M&A transactions to promote corporate restructuring. In international news, ASEAN plans to create a permanent Myanmar envoy and reduce regional trade barriers through an October agreement.
27.05.2025
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Tuesday
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Day German Crown Replaces Japanese

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Japan lost its 34-year status as the world's top creditor nation to Germany, marking a significant economic milestone despite record-high net external assets, partly due to the weaker yen. Agricultural developments continued with 19 companies applying to purchase 90,000 tons of government reserve rice, though applications were temporarily suspended by afternoon.

The pension reform bill cleared the final parliamentary hurdle with a tripartite agreement between ruling parties and the opposition, though affected generations expressed anger over reduced benefits. Climate change emerged as an electoral flashpoint, with one-third of voters identifying as "climate voters" ahead of the Upper House elections.

In healthcare policy, the government announced doctors can now cover night shifts at multiple hospitals simultaneously to address staffing shortages. The Nippon Steel-US Steel acquisition saga continued developing, with both companies and the US government considering "golden share" arrangements to address national security concerns.
28.05.2025
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Wednesday
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Day Sumo Champion Rises While Courts Order Compensation

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Onosato achieved yokozuna status after just 13 tournaments, marking the fastest promotion in sumo history. Courts ordered compensation in the Okawara wrongful conviction case, with both Tokyo and the national government held liable for damages.

Rice policy developments continued from previous days, with Agriculture Minister Koizumi maintaining his stance on government reserves. The ministry temporarily suspended stockpiled rice contract applications by afternoon, suggesting implementation challenges with the discount program announced earlier this week.

Corporate consolidation accelerated as Ain Holdings acquired Sakura Pharmacy for over 100 billion yen, reflecting pharmacy chain expansion into prescription services. The Nippon Steel-US Steel deal progressed with a proposed "golden share" solution to address national security concerns. Political maneuvering emerged by afternoon as Kishida expressed caution toward forming a coalition with the Constitutional Democratic Party. International complications developed with reports of over 20 Japanese nationals detained in Cambodia on fraud-related charges.
29.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day Courts Block Tariffs While Defense Purchases Counter

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U.S. trade courts blocked Trump's global tariffs agenda, placing the duties in legal limbo and potentially triggering massive refunds to importers. Japan responded by scheduling evening phone talks between Prime Minister Ishiba and President Trump regarding tariff policies, marking direct diplomatic engagement on the trade dispute.

Japan's defense procurement strategy emerged as the primary counter to U.S. trade pressure, with officials suggesting equipment purchases could address bilateral trade imbalances. This aligns with ongoing discussions about increased payments for U.S. military stationed in Japan.

The rice reserve program implementation continued with 61 companies confirmed for contracts, though three major convenience store chains had their applications rejected. Prime Minister Ishiba expanded diplomatic initiatives, calling for enhanced U.S. security commitment in Asia while promoting TPP framework expansion to include ASEAN and EU nations.

Corporate consolidation accelerated with NTT and SBI announcing a capital partnership targeting young consumers through telecommunications-finance integration.
30.05.2025
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Friday
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Day China Lifts Seafood Ban

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China agreed to begin procedures for resuming Japanese seafood imports, lifting the ban imposed after Fukushima's treated radioactive wastewater release. The breakthrough emerged overnight following prolonged diplomatic efforts to restore trade relations.

The Diet began its first deliberations in 28 years on dual surname legislation, allowing married couples to keep different surnames. Pension reform legislation passed the House of Representatives by morning.

The rice crisis reached consumer markets as government stockpiled rice became available at 2,000 yen levels, following weeks of doubled prices and ministerial intervention. Applications for reserve rice contracts continued for small and medium enterprises.

Corporate expansion accelerated with Dai-ichi Life Holdings investing 160 billion yen for a 15% stake in UK insurer M&G. Regional cooperation discussions emerged as SK Group's chairman proposed joint South Korea-Japan purchases of US natural gas to address tariff challenges. Police began investigating securities account hijacking allegedly originating from China.
31.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day Trump Calls Steel Partner Great

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Trump's position on the Nippon Steel-US Steel merger shifted markedly through the day, moving from tariff escalation announcements to calling the Japanese company a "great partner." This represented another reversal following previous days of legal challenges to his tariff agenda.

The government's stockpiled rice program reached consumers with early morning queues forming at stores, some selling out immediately. The initiative followed weeks of doubled rice prices and political pressure on the new agriculture minister.

Defense Secretary Hegseth warned of Chinese threats to Taiwan while Japan and the US agreed to strengthen cyber cooperation, continuing the pattern of military collaboration as a counterweight to trade tensions. Regional security concerns expanded with reports of explosions in Russia's Far East.

Domestic political friction persisted over pension reform legislation, with criticism from both ruling and opposition parties. The dual surname debate advanced toward becoming a campaign issue for upcoming Senate elections.
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