Local News

The Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade, and Industry released its figures for September sales at large retail stores in Kyushu and Okinawa Prefecture. Sales totaled 111.8 billion yen, a 1.3% year-on-year decline and the 26th consecutive monthly drop. Sales at supermarkets and convenience stores rose for the first time in 16 months, however, fueled by the demand created by the sharp increase in cigarette taxes that went into effect in October.