Oita Sets ¥22B Budget, Boosts Inflation Relief

Oita Prefecture held a press conference to present its December supplementary budget proposal, totaling approximately ¥22 billion. Of this amount, about ¥18 billion will be allocated to business expenses, with the remainder covering labor costs.

Overview of the December Supplementary Budget Proposal

1. Measures to Support Residents and Businesses Amid Inflation (¥3.8 Billion)

The prefecture outlined several initiatives designed to ease the burden of rising prices:

• Regional Gift Certificates

Subsidies through local Chambers of Commerce to issue gift certificates with an added 30% value, helping residents offset inflation.

• Energy Price Relief

Subsidies to reduce the impact of higher energy costs for households and local companies.

• Business Productivity Support

Assistance for companies to introduce robots and ICT tools aimed at labor-saving and productivity improvements.

• School Lunch Program

Subsidies to encourage the use of locally produced ingredients in school meals.

2. Strengthening Land and Agricultural Facilities (¥15 Billion)

A significant portion of the budget will be invested in reinforcing land and agricultural infrastructure to better withstand damage from natural disasters.

Other introduction (Tourism Promotion: Oita Hello Kitty Airport)

In addition, Oita Prefecture announced a new tourism campaign featuring Sanrio characters at Oita Hello Kitty Airport. Decorations will be added to areas such as the children's play space and the domestic terminal lobby, aiming to enhance the airport's appeal.