Takaichi Approval Rating Slides Amid Rising Living Costs

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is facing a sharp decline in public support, according to a recent poll by the Yomiuri newspaper. The approval rating for her administration fell to 57% in July, down from 69% in June, marking the first time support has dropped below 60% since she took office in 2025.

The proportion of respondents who disapproved of her administration increased to 34% from 21% in the previous month. The issue of rising living costs is fueling dissatisfaction with Takaichi's economic policies, which have contributed to market volatility and a weakening yen that fell to four-decade lows.

Takaichi has faced criticism for her expansionary fiscal and monetary policy stance, particularly regarding her pledge to reduce Japan's eight percent food sales tax. The opposition from within her own ruling party and concerns over the impact of tax cuts on public finances have complicated the issue.