Japan
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Japan Considers “Singles Tax” Sparking Online Debate: Up to $12 Monthly Charge
Japan will introduce a controversial “Children and Childcare Support Levy” in April 2026 to address its declining birthrate. Individuals, including the unmarried and childless, may contribute up to ¥1,650 monthly for childcare support. While the contribution is universal, benefits are targeted at families, drawing parallels to maternity benefit contributions and fueling public debate over perceived fairness.
