On the 13th, Japan's Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama indicated that the government anticipates a budget of 300 billion yen per month to resume gasoline subsidies. This initiative is aimed at maintaining the price of regular gasoline below 170 yen per liter amid rising crude oil prices resulting from worsening situations in Iran. Katayama reassured that the subsidies would continue without interruption, even if circumstances cause prolonged volatility in oil prices. As of the 9th, the average gasoline price in Japan was recorded at 161.8 yen per liter. The government is responding to concerns over rising prices after the previous temporary gasoline tax rate of approximately 25 yen per liter was abolished at the end of last year. Despite currently being at a relatively low level compared to recent years, the ongoing increase in crude oil prices and depreciation of the yen may soon push gasoline prices beyond 200 yen per liter. With the impending financial requirements laid out by Katayama, the government’s focus on stabilizing fuel prices reflects broader economic priorities. As fuel prices impact daily life and the economy at large, the administration aims to cushion the impact on consumers while navigating the complexities arising from international market fluctuations. This somewhat proactive stance may ease public sentiment but also signals a responsive policy in light of global oil challenges.