Ishiba to launch program to cut gasoline prices by ¥10

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is launching a new program to reduce gasoline prices by ¥10 per liter next month, aimed at addressing rising costs linked to U.S. tariffs under Donald Trump's administration and inflation. The initiative, alongside plans to reintroduce subsidies for electricity and gas bills during July-September, reflects the government's strategy to alleviate financial pressures ahead of an upcoming House of Councillors election. While no supplementary budget bill is planned for 2025, existing measures will be utilized to ease citizens' financial strain. Currently, oil wholesalers are receiving support to keep gasoline prices stable around ¥185 per liter.