Manga Artists, Taxi Drivers Hit as Japan Tax Frustrations Mount.

The approval rating of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has reached record lows due to frustrations over a new tax system. Approximately 4.6 million businesses that were previously exempt from paying sales tax are now impacted by the new invoice system. Those who adopt the system will have to hand over the extra income from sales tax to the government, potentially leading to a loss of customers or demands to lower prices. Freelancers and small businesses making less than ¥10 million a year remain exempt from the tax if they stay outside the invoice system, but their clients may be less willing to pay the levy. The new system aims to increase tax revenue and clarify whether companies have paid the full 10% sales tax rate. However, it has led to protests and a campaign called Stop Invoice, with some arguing that the extra money they keep without the invoice system is vital for low-earning freelancers and small businesses. The system has also increased administrative work for businesses. Despite concerns and declining popularity, Kishida's government has stated that the new system is necessary for transparency and will not be reversed. [Extracted from the article]