Arab News Japan

TOKYO: The latest Japan News Network opinion poll showed that 57 percent of respondents believe that “countermeasures should be taken” in response to US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose reciprocal tariffs on Japan.

Meanwhile, the support for the Cabinet of Prime Minister ISHIBA Shigeru has seen a significant drop of 7.8 points from the previous month’s survey, now standing at 30.6 percent, the lowest since his tenure began. The number of those who ‘cannot support it has risen by 8.4 points to 66.1 percent, also marking the highest since he took office. 

To combat rising prices, some opposition parties have called for a reduction in the consumption tax on food, but Prime Minister Ishiba has stated that he has no intention of lowering it, saying, “The consumption tax is an important source of revenue to support social security for all generations.” Regarding the reduction in the consumption tax, 61 percent were in favor, while 33 percent were against it. 

When asked how long they would like Ishiba to remain as Prime Minister, 40 percent answered “until the Upper House election in the summer.” Thirty-eight percent said they would like to see the current coalition parties – the Liberal-Democratic Party and Komeito – reorganized into a broader coalition with the addition of opposition parties.

Despite the upcoming opening of the Osaka-Kansai Expo on April 13, only 35 percent of the public has shown ‘interest’ in the event, while a significant 64 percent have expressed ‘no interest’. 

The telephone survey was conducted on April 5 and 6.