Abe Asks Smes To Maintain Employment


Abe asks SMEs to maintain employment

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has asked small and medium-sized companies and retailers to maintain employment and pledged government support for their efforts.

Abe attended the third day of intensive hearings at the prime minister's office on Saturday to hear opinions from industry officials on the possibility of an additional economic package amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Officials of associations of small and medium-sized companies and retailers were invited.

Relevant ministers and senior officials of the governing coalition parties also took part.

Abe said his government is determined to protect employment. He said the government is asking people to avoid activities that may spread the virus and thus the economy will naturally stagnate.

But he added he wants industry officials to strive to maintain employment, and that the government will provide support for them.

Some participants called for bold economic stimulus measures, such as distribution of cash and coupons. Others asked for additional financial support for small and medium-sized firms.

Abe said he will work hard on this matter.

Intensive hearings will be also held on Monday and officials of the transport and tourism industries will be invited.