Local News

In an effort to boost local consumption and promote retail business, the city of Sasebo plans to issue shopping coupons. The impetus will be the stimulus package that the national government will provide citizens this year. If a consumer purchases the coupon with the 12,000 yen subsidy, they will be able to use it to purchase 13,200 yen worth of merchandise in local stores. City officials say it is unusual in Japan for municipalities to conduct these programs.