Japan has launched its new "security clearance" system, which restricts access to sensitive economic security information to individuals deemed suitable through a national screening process. The program, which began operation on May 15th, is intended to enhance international collaboration by aligning Japan’s information handling standards with those of key allies.
The Japanese government has set a new wage policy target aimed at achieving a real wage increase of around 1% by fiscal 2029, taking inflation into account. To support this goal, it plans to mobilize public and private investment totaling approximately 60 trillion yen over the next five years to boost corporate productivity.
A growing number of Chinese tourists in Japan are converting their foreign driver's licenses into Japanese ones by listing their hotel addresses as proof of residence, drawing criticism and prompting a policy shift from authorities.
Hyogo Governor Motohiko Saito and senior prefectural officials have participated in an anti-power harassment training session aimed at fostering a more open and communicative workplace environment.
A stolen Buddhist statue from Tsushima was returned to Japan on May 10th, marking a significant step toward resolving a diplomatic dispute that has strained Japan-South Korea relations for over a decade.
Across Japan, road collapses have been occurring with increasing frequency, often blamed on aging infrastructure. In one recent incident in Ashioshi, Saitama Prefecture, a truck was swallowed by a gaping sinkhole.