Public Outrage in Japan as Official Cites Lack of Consumer 'Gratitude' Behind Gasoline Subsidy Cut
Widespread backlash has erupted across social media following reports that Prime Minister's Office officials justified scaling back Japan's gasoline subsidies by claiming consumers had become “too used to the support” and needed to be reminded to “feel grateful.” According to media reports, senior officials in the Prime Minister’s Office remarked that the policy had effectively become meaningless because consumers take the subsidies for granted, with many unaware that the government is even subsidizing fuel costs. The officials reportedly suggested that winding down the measure would help the public regain an appreciation for state support. These comments quickly sparked intense pushback online, sending the phrase “accustomed to support” trending on X (formerly Twitter). Social media users voiced sharp indignation, with many posting comments such as, “It is entirely misplaced to demand 'gratitude' for policies funded by our own tax money,...