The Japanese government and ruling coalition held their first "National Conference" on Monday to discuss food consumption tax cuts and refundable tax credits, though the absence of major opposition parties rendered it a partial meeting.
According to Kyodo News and NHK, the afternoon meeting at the Prime Minister's residence was attended by government officials, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, coalition partner Nippon Ishin no Kai, and representatives from Team Mirai. Major opposition parties including the Chuudo Kaikaku Rengo and the Democratic Party for the People declined to participate, citing inadequate conditions for discussion.
The National Conference is discussing a proposal to temporarily exempt the current 8% food consumption tax for two years, followed by the introduction of a refundable tax credit system. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated she would examine implementation timelines and funding measures that do not rely on deficit bonds.
"We will proceed carefully but with a sense of urgency," Takaichi said. "If a draft is ready before summer, we will submit related legislation promptly."
The prime minister expressed support for a system allowing flexible adjustment of consumption tax rates in response to price trends or pandemic outbreaks.
However, Team Mirai leader Takahiro Anno, who attended the meeting, opposed the measure. "Lowering the food consumption tax could plunge the economy and society into chaos," he said.
Junya Ogawa, leader of Chuudo Kaikaku Rengo, who boycotted the meeting, said he had "no confidence this will lead to concrete results."
The government plans to advance discussions through working-level meetings involving cabinet ministers and party representatives. A separate expert council comprising regional and business community representatives will also be established.