Bank of Japan Finalizes Plans to End Negative Interest Rate Policy

Matsuo, operator of the Matsuo Jingisukan chain, has embarked on a surprising new venture by opening its first specialty shoe store last week in Atsubetsu Ward, Sapporo, selling footwear instead of lamb.

At Daimaru Umeda, a new event has started featuring popular South Korean cosmetics brands on a weekly rotation, leading to an uptick in visits from younger shoppers and those interested in Korean fashion. Hankyu Umeda is also preparing to launch a new section aimed at customers aged 25 and under, offering a fresh shopping experience that incorporates lifestyle goods and Korean brands.

The largest operator of hospice-style residential facilities, Ishinkan, already under scrutiny for allegedly inflating and falsifying medical service claims for home nursing visits, is now suspected of also fraudulently overbilling for home care services, according to testimony from multiple current and former employees.

Sushiro, one of Japan's leading conveyor belt sushi chains, is rapidly expanding its presence in China. On April 30th, it plans to open its first location in Zhejiang Province, bringing the total number of stores on the mainland to more than 50 in less than four years since entering the market.

Construction of the Integrated Resort (IR) complex in Yumeshima, Osaka—adjacent to the site of the 2025 World Expo—began on April 24th, with plans to open the facility in five years.

Toyota Motor Corporation announced on April 24th that its global sales for fiscal 2024 totaled 10,273,719 vehicles, a 0.3% decrease from the previous year, marking the first year-on-year decline in four years.

Rice prices in Japan continue to soar, more than doubling from the same period last year, with no clear signs of easing despite the government’s decision to release stockpiled rice. The current situation—dubbed the “Reiwa Rice Crisis”—has drawn comparisons to past supply shocks, prompting public concern and debate over whether government intervention has come too late.

At the Shanghai Motor Show, which opened to the press on April 23rd ahead of its public run from April 27th to May 2nd, Toyota Motor Corporation revealed a series of new models, including a new electric vehicle, as it works to regain ground in the increasingly competitive Chinese market.