Fukuoka City announced on March 13 that it will subsidize up to half of the increased utility costs faced by small and medium-sized businesses and sole proprietors due to rising fuel prices. The subsidy will cover electricity, gas, and gasoline expenses, with payments capped at ¥600,000 per business. The program applies to energy use during two high-demand periods: July–September 2025 and January–March 2026. Applicants must calculate the impact of price increases based on their usage and the rise in unit costs. Applications will be accepted from March 23 through June 30. The city allocated ¥790 million for the program, including administrative costs, using funds from a national local government support grant. Officials said the measure is intended to ease financial pressure on smaller businesses affected by prolonged price increases and geopolitical tensions influencing fuel markets. Source: Zaikai Kyushu / Nikkei
Photo: Fukuoka Now
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