Fukuoka Mayor Soichiro Takashima announced that the city will not distribute government-promoted “rice coupons,” citing high administrative and issuance costs. Although the coupons were highlighted in national economic relief measures, the program was not included in the city’s supplementary budget proposal. Takashima noted that issuing a ¥500 coupon requires about ¥60 in processing fees, and verifying household information and mailing the coupons would add substantial expenses. He emphasized that emergency support should minimize intermediary costs to reach residents effectively. Instead, the city plans measures such as waiving two months of sewerage fees, which he said would provide direct relief with lower administrative burden. The mayor added that the city will continue evaluating cost-efficient ways to return benefits to residents. Source: KBC
Photo: Fukuoka Now, for image purpose only.
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