Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As

REPORTER: The Nikkei Stock Average has fallen for five consecutive days since the start of the New Year, the first time this has occurred in the post-war era. Can I ask for your views on this topic as well as the future outlook?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: I am aware of the changes in share prices since the beginning of the year, which are due to concerns over various developments in the international situation. These include the fall in share prices in China and also the downward trend in stock markets in Europe and the United States. It is normal for me to refrain from making specific comments about share prices. What I would say is that as the Government continues to closely monitor the domestic and international situation, the Japanese economy remains on a gradual recovery trajectory. It is therefore extremely important for the Government to swiftly use the supplementary and standard budgets in order to steadily advance economic-related policies.

REPORTER: There are concerns that if the fall in share prices continues, it may have a negative impact on the mindset of the business community, which the Government has called on to boost wages and capital investment. What is your view on this point?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: My understanding is that there is no change to the gradual economic recovery in Japan, which is part of a positive economic cycle.

(Abridged)

REPORTER: I have a question on a different topic. The EU has eased restrictions on food imports from Japan which have been in place since the accident at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. However, the Republic of Korea (ROK) shows no signs of easing its own restrictions. Can I ask about how the Government intends to respond going forward?

CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: On January 5, the European Commission adopted an implementing regulation, which will enter into force on January 9. The Government would like to welcome the fact that certain restrictions have been eased. With regard to the ROK, the Government will continue to make committed efforts to call for restrictions to be eased as soon as possible.

(Abridged)