币界网报道：Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has dismissed calls for temporary sales tax cuts to ease the burden of rising prices, citing concerns over fiscal sustainability and long-term economic stability. Speaking at a press conference, Kishida emphasized that Japan's current 10% consumption tax rate is necessary to fund social security programs and maintain public finances amid a rapidly aging population. The government instead plans targeted relief measures, including subsidies for low-income households and energy bill assistance, to address inflation pressures without compromising fiscal discipline. Economists note Japan's core consumer prices rose 2.8% year-on-year in January, marking the 21st consecutive month above the Bank of Japan's 2% target. Opposition parties have criticized the decision, arguing tax cuts could stimulate consumer spending, but Kishida maintains that Japan must prioritize debt reduction given its public debt-to-GDP ratio exceeding 260%. The administration will present its comprehensive economic package to parliament next month, focusing on wage growth and productivity improvements rather than broad tax reductions. Market analysts suggest this stance reflects growing global central bank caution about premature policy easing amid persistent inflation concerns.