Emerging
Jun 18, 20261
59%
Japan Cabinet Support Falls to Record Low, Food Tax Debate Intensifies
A June poll by Jiji Press shows Japanese cabinet support falling to 54.3%, the lowest since formation, with disapproval at a record 22.2%. The decline is linked to reports of the prime minister's team posting negative videos about rivals during party elections. On food tax, 40.7% of voters want zero consumption tax, while 29.4% prefer a 1% rate.
Quick Facts
Who
Shigeru Ishiba
What
cabinet support rate dropped to 54.3%
When
June 2026
Where
Japan
- cabinet support rate dropped to 54.3%
- disapproval rose to 22.2%
- negative social media videos posted by prime minister's campaign
- food tax reduction polled
- Shigeru Ishiba
Support for the Japanese cabinet has dropped to 54.3%, marking the lowest level since the government's formation, according to a June poll conducted by Jiji Press from June 12 to 15. The approval rating fell 5.1 percentage points from the previous month, while disapproval rose to 22.2%, a post-formation high. The decline is widely attributed to recent controversies, including reports that Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's campaign team posted videos on social media during last year's Liberal Democratic Party presidential election that disparaged rival candidates.
The poll also highlighted strong public interest in reducing the consumption tax on food items. When asked about the appropriate tax rate, 40.7% of respondents supported setting it at 0%, while 29.4% favored a 1% rate. Another 22.1% said a reduction was unnecessary. Among supporters of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, opinions were evenly split, with 33.5% backing 0% and 36.9% preferring 1%.
The findings underscore growing public discontent with the government's economic policies and leadership amid ongoing debates over tax reform. The controversy over the prime minister's campaign tactics has further eroded trust, contributing to the sharp decline in approval ratings.
Why This Matters
This decline in cabinet support signals growing public frustration with the current administration, which could lead to policy paralysis and potential leadership change. For investors and businesses tracking Japan, it suggests increased uncertainty around economic reforms, especially consumption tax policy—a key factor affecting consumer spending and inflation expectations. The food tax debate, with over 70% of voters backing some reduction, indicates strong pressure on the government to act, potentially altering fiscal revenue projections.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 12, 2026
WireJiji Press conducted June opinion poll
Jun 15, 2026
WirePolling ended
Jun 18, 2026
WirePoll results published