In a groundbreaking move, the Japanese government, led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, has decided to pivot its agricultural policy toward increasing rice production. This decision, set to be formally announced at a ministerial meeting on August 5, 2025, comes as a direct response to recent rice price hikes triggered …

On August 4, 2025, Ezaki Glico, the renowned Japanese confectionery company, announced a groundbreaking achievement: the registration of Pocky’s distinctive long, thin stick shape as a “three-dimensional trademark.” This milestone is more than just a legal victory—it’s a celebration of Pocky’s enduring legacy as a beloved snack, both in Japan …

Introduction: A Landmark Wage Increase In a significant move for Japan’s workforce, the Central Minimum Wage Council announced on August 4, 2025, that the national weighted average minimum wage will rise to 1,118 yen per hour for the fiscal year 2025. This increase of 63 yen, or 6.0%, from the …