Japan Eyes 1% Food Tax, April 2027 Start

Japan is leaning toward slashing the consumption tax on food to 1%, with an April 2027 implementation date now being mulled by the government. The move is aimed at easing the burden of protracted inflation on Japanese households.

The 1% rate is favored over a full zero-percent cut because it requires roughly half the preparation time, including updates to cash register systems across retailers. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to make a final call on the tax cut this month.

For a food-obsessed nation where grocery costs have climbed steadily, even a 1% cut signals serious political intent.