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2 clusters · 3 sources · 9 days · First seen 10 days ago · Last updated 2 days ago

Japan Furusato Nozei system operational changes

Overview

The Furusato Nozei (hometown tax donation) system in Japan is undergoing shifts in operational management and fee structures. BIPROGY Inc. has introduced a specialized service for Furusato Nozei websites designed to support regional revitalization and manage donor relationships through digital tools and generative AI. This service aims to assist municipalities in building independent customer bases, particularly as government regulations are expected to lower operational expense limits in October 2026.

Concurrently, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has requested that intermediary website operators reduce their fees to prevent the outflow of donation funds. In response, six major providers, including Furusato Choice, have announced plans to reduce service plan fees. However, 14 other companies, such as Rakuten Group, intend to maintain current rates, stating their fees are already below the national average of 11.5%.

Entities

Fujikawa Town · BIPROGY Inc. · Rakuten Group · Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications · Sakai Town

Timeline

2 days ago

[BUSINESS] 2 sources
Furusato Nozei sites announce fee reductions
Six Furusato Nozei intermediary sites have pledged to lower fees for local governments following pressure from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications to protect regional tax revenues.
10 days ago

[BUSINESS] 2 sources
BIPROGY launches specialized Furusato Nozei website service
BIPROGY Inc. has launched a specialized service to help Japanese municipalities manage “Furusato Nozei” websites, aiming to build long-term regional fanbases through AI and integrated content planning.

Sources

city.kitakyushu.lg.jp · nishinippon.co.jp · the-miyanichi.co.jp