The government's Go To Eat campaign to support eateries hit hard by the novel coronavirus crisis will partially kick off on Oct. 5, and discount meal coupons to be used locally will likely become available across the nation some time after that.
Plans are in place for the campaign to begin in 33 of Japan's 47 prefectures, including Aichi and Chiba. Regarding the remaining 14 prefectures, including Tokyo and Kanagawa, the Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Ministry had continued accepting applications until Friday from entities that can serve as campaign operators.
Niigata Prefecture is expected to be the first one where customers can start using discount coupons on Oct. 5, before coupons likely become available in most regions by the end of November.
Entities serving as campaign operators in each participating prefecture issue restaurant coupons that can be redeemed for 125% of the purchase price.
As part of the campaign, points will be given to customers who make reservations via designated online reservation sites.
The points can be used on later visits to eateries taking part in the campaign. Thirteen operators of websites such as Gurunavi have so far been selected, and preparations are underway for the point project's planned start Thursday.
"We will provide support focusing on eateries hit hard by the virus crisis," Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Kotaro Nogami said at a task force meeting at the ministry Monday. "Supporting them will also lead to assistance for people engaged in the agriculture, forestry and fisheries industries."
If infection numbers rise in various parts of the country, each prefectural government will decide on its own whether to shorten the opening hours of eateries or call off the campaign.
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