Key Facts
• On November 18, Kumano City Mayor Kanji Kawakami announced a $964,800 budget increase.
• The supplementary budget includes a local voucher program to address rising inflation.
• The “Rainbow Voucher” provides $50 per person, usable at affiliated local stores.
• Residents registered as of December 1 will receive vouchers in early January 2026.
• $788,720 is allocated for the voucher program under the commerce budget.
• Since 2020, Kumano City has issued vouchers nine times, with over 90% usage rates.
• Vouchers have a six-month validity to ensure immediate economic impact.
• Mayor Kawakami emphasized the program’s role in boosting local economic activity.
• Additional initiatives include a bamboo light-up event at Hana-no-Iwaya Shrine on December 20.
• The city is also recruiting farmers to expand habanero chili production through the Kumano Agricultural Promotion Corporation.
Summary
Kumano City, Mie Prefecture, has proposed a $964,800 budget increase to address inflation through local economic initiatives. Announced by Mayor Kanji Kawakami on November 18, the plan includes a “Rainbow Voucher” program, offering $50 per resident for use at local stores. Scheduled for distribution in January 2026, the program has a proven track record, with over 90% usage rates in previous iterations. The vouchers’ six-month validity ensures swift economic stimulation. Additional measures include a bamboo light-up event at Hana-no-Iwaya Shrine and efforts to boost habanero chili production by recruiting local farmers. These initiatives aim to invigorate the local economy and support residents amid rising costs.
