Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has joined the list of world leaders to contract Covid-19 in recent times. Reportedly, the Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive.&nbsp;

Kishida, 65, had to depart for a visit to Tunisia but the virus has forced him to recuperate at his official residence, according to a statement released by the Cabinet Secretariat. It is pertinent to note that Kishida is double vaxxed and had a booster shot, earlier this month.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, Kishida had worked till August 15, performing his official duties before taking a short holiday with his family. He was supposed to return to work on Monday but will now be forced to take a break or work remotely.&nbsp;

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-deploy-1000-long-range-missiles-to-counter-china-report-508820">&nbsp;Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report</a>

The Japanese PM, on his trip to Tunisia, was expected to attend the eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) on August 27 and 28.&nbsp;

Akin to several Asian countries, Japan is witnessing a resurgence of Covid cases in the country. Reportedly, 24,780 Covid cases were recorded on Sunday in the capital city of Tokyo alone.&nbsp;

While the hospitalisation and death rates have been low, the rise in cases has made the government rethink its steps to contain the virus. The Japanese economy grew at 2.2 per cent in the second quarter, slower than what the experts had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-economy-rebounds-from-covid-sees-growth-in-second-quarter-506920">predicted</a>.&nbsp;

Thus, making sure that the caseload remains low and the country is not closed is how the authorities may like to proceed.&nbsp;

US Prez had contracted the virus too

As reported by WION, last month, it was US President Joe Biden that contracted the virus. At the time, Biden's physician reported that he had a runny nose, dry cough, and lethargy.

Read more:<a href="US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has 'mild symptoms'"> US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has 'mild symptoms'</a>

Prior to taking office, 79-year-old Biden <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/days-after-recovery-us-president-joe-biden-contracts-covid-disease-again-502133">received </a>two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. A first booster shot was given to him in September, then a second one on March 30.&nbsp;

Moreover, a few weeks after Biden's positive report, his wife, Jill Biden also tested positive for the virus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has joined the list of world leaders to contract Covid-19 in recent times. Reportedly, the Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has joined the list of world leaders to contract Covid-19 in recent times. Reportedly, the Japanese Prime Minister developed a cough and slight fever on Saturday, before taking a PCR test, which returned positive. Kishida, 65, had to depart for a visit to Tunisia but the virus has forced him to recuperate at his official residence, according to a statement released by the Cabinet Secretariat. It is pertinent to note that Kishida is double vaxxed and had a booster shot, earlier this month. According to local media reports, Kishida had worked till August 15, performing his official duties before taking a short holiday with his family. He was supposed to return to work on Monday but will now be forced to take a break or work remotely. Read More: Japan may deploy 1,000 long-range missiles to counter China: Report The Japanese PM, on his trip to Tunisia, was expected to attend the eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) on August 27 and 28. Akin to several Asian countries, Japan is witnessing a resurgence of Covid cases in the country. Reportedly, 24,780 Covid cases were recorded on Sunday in the capital city of Tokyo alone. While the hospitalisation and death rates have been low, the rise in cases has made the government rethink its steps to contain the virus. The Japanese economy grew at 2.2 per cent in the second quarter, slower than what the experts had predicted. Thus, making sure that the caseload remains low and the country is not closed is how the authorities may like to proceed. US Prez had contracted the virus too As reported by WION, last month, it was US President Joe Biden that contracted the virus. At the time, Biden's physician reported that he had a runny nose, dry cough, and lethargy. Read more: US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has 'mild symptoms' Prior to taking office, 79-year-old Biden received two doses of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine. A first booster shot was given to him in September, then a second one on March 30. Moreover, a few weeks after Biden's positive report, his wife, Jill Biden also tested positive for the virus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida tests positive for coronavirus ahead of an African trip

Quirky plastic food sculptures are on display at an exhibition in Tokyo. For long fake food products have been displayed outside Japanese restaurants. They are known as 'Shokuhin sampuru' or sample food products.

Fake Food: A multi-million-dollar industry in Japan

Japan is urging its young people to drink more to boost the country's economy. Molly Gambhir tells you all about Japan's nationwide competition to boost alcohol consumption.

WION Fineprint: Japan wants young people to drink more alcohol

Amid rising fuel prices and widening trade deficit, Japan's core consumer price index (CPI) has risen to over seven-year high in July.

Japan inflation hits over 7-year high

Japan wants young people to drink more alcohol, yes, you read that right. Japan thinks its youth are not drinking enough, so, the country has launched a campaign to revitalise the drinking culture. But why would a country encourage its youth to drink alcohol? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Japan wants its youth to drink more alcohol

The Japanese government has launched a countrywide competition calling for ideas to encourage people to drink more alcohol after a change in attitudes among young adults resulted in plummeting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-imposes-a-winter-gas-tax-despite-concerns-about-its-effects-507124">tax </a>revenues.

The National Tax Agency (NTA) is running the Sake Viva! campaign, which invites persons aged 20 to 39 to submit ideas for reviving the appeal of alcoholic beverages, which has declined due to lifestyle changes during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/actor-shefali-shah-tests-positive-for-covid-19-507773">coronavirus</a> pandemic especially among young people.

As reported by the Guardian, the contest, which is open until September 9th, requests "new items and designs" in addition to strategies to encourage home drinking. The local website JiJi.com advises competitors to investigate metaverse-based sales strategies.

According to the NTA, the average annual alcohol consumption in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/asteroids-may-have-brought-water-to-earth-billions-of-years-ago-says-study-507279">Japan</a> decreased from 100 litres per person in 1995 to 75 litres in 2020. The decline in alcohol sales has hurt Japan's finances, which are already in the red by more than 48 trillion yen (£290 billion).

In 2020, alcohol-related taxes made for 1.7% of Japan's total tax revenue, down from 3% in 2011 and 5% in 1980.

The NTA reported earlier this month that the total revenue collected from alcohol taxes in the 2020 fiscal year decreased by more than 110 billion to 1.1 trillion compared to the prior year. The Japan Times said that it was the largest decrease in alcohol tax revenue in 31 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-executive-arrested-over-bribery-allegations-507804">Tokyo Olympics executive arrested over bribery allegations</a>

Beer consumption fell significantly, with sales volume falling 20% to less than 1.8 billion litres. 
According to the Kirin brewery, which produces Ichiban Shibori and Kirin lager, the average person in Japan consumed roughly 55 bottles of beer in 2020, a 9.1% decrease from the previous year.

The health ministry of Japan expressed the hope that the campaign will also serve as a reminder for individuals to only consume the "proper amount of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peacekeeping-abuse-un-soldiers-fathered-and-abandoned-thousands-of-children-in-dr-congo-507198">alcohol</a>."

The competition's finalists will be invited to a lavish awards event in Tokyo on November 10; the tax office announced that it will promote the commercialization of the winner's ideas.

The Japanese government has launched a countrywide competition calling for ideas to encourage people to drink more alcohol after a change in attitudes among young adults resulted in plummeting tax revenues.

The Japanese government has launched a countrywide competition calling for ideas to encourage people to drink more alcohol after a change in attitudes among young adults resulted in plummeting tax revenues. The National Tax Agency (NTA) is running the Sake Viva! campaign, which invites persons aged 20 to 39 to submit ideas for reviving the appeal of alcoholic beverages, which has declined due to lifestyle changes during the coronavirus pandemic especially among young people. As reported by the Guardian, the contest, which is open until September 9th, requests "new items and designs" in addition to strategies to encourage home drinking. The local website JiJi.com advises competitors to investigate metaverse-based sales strategies. According to the NTA, the average annual alcohol consumption in Japan decreased from 100 litres per person in 1995 to 75 litres in 2020. The decline in alcohol sales has hurt Japan's finances, which are already in the red by more than 48 trillion yen (£290 billion). In 2020, alcohol-related taxes made for 1.7% of Japan's total tax revenue, down from 3% in 2011 and 5% in 1980. The NTA reported earlier this month that the total revenue collected from alcohol taxes in the 2020 fiscal year decreased by more than 110 billion to 1.1 trillion compared to the prior year. The Japan Times said that it was the largest decrease in alcohol tax revenue in 31 years. Also read | Tokyo Olympics executive arrested over bribery allegations Beer consumption fell significantly, with sales volume falling 20% to less than 1.8 billion litres. According to the Kirin brewery, which produces Ichiban Shibori and Kirin lager, the average person in Japan consumed roughly 55 bottles of beer in 2020, a 9.1% decrease from the previous year. The health ministry of Japan expressed the hope that the campaign will also serve as a reminder for individuals to only consume the "proper amount of alcohol." The competition's finalists will be invited to a lavish awards event in Tokyo on November 10; the tax office announced that it will promote the commercialization of the winner's ideas.

Please drink more: As tax revenues fall, Japan launches competition to encourage alcohol consumption

The Japanese government has now launched a nationwide competition calling for ideas to encourage the Japanese people to drink more alcohol. The National Tax Agency has said that alcohol consumption in Japan apparently has fallen and this has gotten the Japanese government very worried.

Alcohol consumption in Japan falls, dip in tax revenue prompts more people to get drinking

The Japanese capital Tokyo has seen a sharp decline in the number of kids waiting to be admitted to daycare facilities. In a recent report by The Japan Times, it was mentioned that the number of admissions stood at a record low of about 300 on a preliminary basis as of April this year. It apparently plunged from the most recent peak of 8,586 in 2017.&nbsp;

But this is not it as another side of the Japanese nurseries tells a different tale. According to a report by the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper, parents have been asked to take home their child's soiled nappies.&nbsp;

The survey-based report brings to notice a practice that is quite common but not discussed openly. As per the report, about 40 per cent of towns and cities in Japan say they demand the guardians of their kids take their used nappies with them.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peacekeeping-abuse-un-soldiers-fathered-and-abandoned-thousands-of-children-in-dr-congo-507198">Peacekeeping abuse: UN soldiers 'fathered and abandoned thousands of children' in DR Congo</a>&nbsp;

The report talks about how many local governments do not promote diaper disposal at daycare centres. It is a public administrative duty to support child care in the community.&nbsp;

As quoted, a 43-year-old woman, who sends her two-year-old daughter to a daycare centre in the city of Kyoto, said, "Why should I take them (used diapers) home? I've never told the daycare that it bothers me because I don't want to make waves. But it's strange."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-alter-blood-type-of-donor-kidneys-to-increase-supply-of-organs-for-transplant-507177">Scientists alter blood type of donor kidneys to increase supply of organs for transplant</a>&nbsp;

The woman said that every time she picks up her daughter, the facility asks her to bring home three or four used diapers. She eventually does and throws them straight into the trash when she gets home.&nbsp;

The survey was conducted by Osaka-based Baby Job Inc., which offers a subscription-based diaper service for daycare centres.&nbsp;

The survey was based on what's happening to used diapers at the child care facilities via its "association to eliminate diaper take-homes from day care centers."&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The Japanese capital Tokyo has seen a sharp decline in the number of kids waiting to be admitted to daycare facilities. In a recent report by The Japan Times, it was mentioned that the number of admissions stood at a record low of about 300 on a preliminary basis as of April this year.

The Japanese capital Tokyo has seen a sharp decline in the number of kids waiting to be admitted to daycare facilities. In a recent report by The Japan Times, it was mentioned that the number of admissions stood at a record low of about 300 on a preliminary basis as of April this year. It apparently plunged from the most recent peak of 8,586 in 2017. But this is not it as another side of the Japanese nurseries tells a different tale. According to a report by the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper, parents have been asked to take home their child's soiled nappies. The survey-based report brings to notice a practice that is quite common but not discussed openly. As per the report, about 40 per cent of towns and cities in Japan say they demand the guardians of their kids take their used nappies with them. ALSO READ | Peacekeeping abuse: UN soldiers 'fathered and abandoned thousands of children' in DR Congo The report talks about how many local governments do not promote diaper disposal at daycare centres. It is a public administrative duty to support child care in the community. As quoted, a 43-year-old woman, who sends her two-year-old daughter to a daycare centre in the city of Kyoto, said, "Why should I take them (used diapers) home? I've never told the daycare that it bothers me because I don't want to make waves. But it's strange." ALSO READ | Scientists alter blood type of donor kidneys to increase supply of organs for transplant The woman said that every time she picks up her daughter, the facility asks her to bring home three or four used diapers. She eventually does and throws them straight into the trash when she gets home. The survey was conducted by Osaka-based Baby Job Inc., which offers a subscription-based diaper service for daycare centres. The survey was based on what's happening to used diapers at the child care facilities via its "association to eliminate diaper take-homes from day care centers." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan: Parents baffled as nurseries ask them to take home soiled diapers

In Japan, several politicians and thousands of residents visited Tokyo's controversial Yasukuni shrine on the occasion of 77th anniversary of Japan's surrender which ended the 2nd World War.

Japanese residents & ministers visit controversial WWII Shrine

Japan's new birth rate minister tried a "pregnancy belly" last year to understand what women experience during pregnancy. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more about Masanobu Ogura.

Gravitas: Japan's new birth rate minister tried pregnancy belly

Profiles of Japanese cabinet ministers after Kishida reshuffle

Japan witnesses a bit of relief from inflation, slowing down from previous month and giving some economic relief. Japan's wholesale price indexes have risen 8.6 percent in July from last year.

Japan's wholesale inflation moderates

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida reshuffled his cabinet on Wednesday, removing some ministers with ties to the Unification Church in an effort to stem falling support amid escalating public outrage over the ruling party’s associations with the controversial organisation.

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida reshuffled his cabinet on Wednesday, removing some ministers with ties to the Unification Church in an effort to stem falling support amid escalating public outrage over the ruling party’s associations with the controversial organisation. Kishida, who has been in office since last October, unveiled his new cabinet in a reorganisation that occurred earlier than observers had predicted. The positions of some prominent ministers were eliminated, including Nobuo Kishi, the younger brother of the assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who was replaced as defence minister by Yasukazu Hamada. However, key individuals like foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi and finance chief Shunichi Suzuki retained their positions. With polls showing Kishida’s favour ratings plummeting and respondents stating a need to know precisely how tight such ties may be, the Liberal Democratic Party’s (LDP) historic ties to the Unification Church have come under scrutiny in the month since Abe was fatally shot. According to Abe’s alleged killer, his mother was a member of the Unification Church who became bankrupt after giving to it, and Abe was to blame for endorsing it. In other changes, Koichi Hagiuda, the trade minister, was appointed to the powerful position of head of the LDP’s policy research council. Despite the fact that Hagiuda has publicly admitted to attending an event sponsored by an organisation with ties to the Unification Church, that appointment is perceived as an effort to placate members of the Abe faction. Here’s why there’s a problem with the church. WHAT IS THE CONTEXT? The anti-communist messiah Sun Myung Moon established the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, also known as the Unification Church, in South Korea in 1954. One of the first countries to which it expanded internationally was Japan, where Moon’s conservatism coincided with the ruling class’s Cold War ideologies. According to church publications, he founded the International Federation for Victory Over Communism organisation in the 1960s and cultivated ties with Japanese leaders during that time. THE LDP: WHY? According to Eito Suzuki, a journalist who researches parliamentarians’ interactions with religious groups, the church and the LDP share some viewpoints, opposing same-sex marriage and advocating modification of Japan’s pacifist constitution. According to attorney Hiro Yamaguchi, who has worked on litigation against the religion, the church established relationships with politicians to draw members and establish credibility. He claimed that politicians were able to approach churchgoers for support during campaigns. According to LDP Secretary General Toshimitsu Motegi, there were no “systematic contacts” between the party and the church. He declared on Monday that it will sever ties with the religion. WHERE DOES SHINZO ABE FIT IN THIS PICTURE? Abe was not a member nor an adviser, according to the religion. According to the website of a church affiliate, he spoke at a gathering in September. The current defence minister and younger brother of Abe, Nobuo Kishi, told reporters that he had help from churchgoers who helped with his campaign. Nobusuke Kishi, a former prime minister and Abe’s grandfather, served as an honorary executive chair at a dinner hosted by Moon in 1974, according to the International Federation for Victory Over Communism. FALL-OUT? According to Japanese public broadcaster NHK, support for Kishida’s cabinet has reached its lowest level since he entered office in October, falling to 46%, with many survey respondents indicating they sought an explanation over connections to the church. New cabinet members and new governing party officials must “thoroughly investigate” connections with the church, according to Kishida, who has previously stated he had “no affiliations” to it. MAJOR IN JAPAN? According to Ahn Ho-yeul, a spokeswoman based in Seoul, the church has about 600,000 members in Japan out of its 10 million total members, making it the fourth-largest congregation in the world. However, monitoring organisations in Japan dispute this figure. Former followers claim that recruitment strategies include knocking on doors, focusing on members’ families, and approaching people outside of train stations. According to the spokeswoman, trading religious artefacts for donations has made Japan its main source of funding for many years. According to a lawyers’ association, these ‘spiritual sales’ by the Unification Church and other organisations cost followers close to $1 billion and led to almost 35,000 compensation claims since 1987. After some members were found guilty of using unethical sales techniques, the church had vowed not to solicit excessive donations. According to his social media posts and news reports, the murder suspect for Abe said the church convinced his mother to give the equivalent of $736,000. Following the incident, the church said it had given the mother back about $400,000 in cash. It refused to remark on the exact amount and denied forcing her. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Japanese PM Kishida reshuffles cabinet as approval ratings slide. What's the backstory?

Famed for a pleated style of clothing that never wrinkles, Japanese designer Issey Miyake has died at the age of 84. Watch this report.

Japanese designer Issey Miyake dies at 84, was famous for pleated clothing

It's been 77 years of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki when the world witnessed a new weapon of mass destruction. After nearly eight decades, there are circumstances and a risk of new nuclear confrontation.

77 years of  Nagasaki Bombings | August 9, 1945: 'Fat Man' dropped on Nagasaki

In the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, tensions have risen between China and Japan. Reportedly, after Japan condemned China's military drills around Taiwan as a 'threat to regional peace and security', the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a lengthy statement questioning Tokyo's motives.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wang Wenbin, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press conference, "Japan has been acting so high-profile on the Taiwan question. Has it forgotten the commitment it made when signing the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement? Is it trying to subvert the political foundation of China-Japan relations?"

The ministry spokesperson further added, "Does it have the ambition to touch Taiwan again? Is Japan going to take this opportunity to expand its arms, abandon its pacifist constitution and abandon the path of peaceful development?"

Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-dont-think-theyre-going-to-do-anything-more-biden-on-chinese-military-drills-near-taiwan-504990">I don’t think they’re going to do anything more: Biden on Chinese military drills near Taiwan</a>

As reported extensively by WION, after Japan released a joint statement alongside G7 nations on Taiwan and Pelosi visited Japan, a miffed China fired five ballistic missiles in Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

However, at the conference, China's foreign ministry refused to accept that such an incident took place even place. Furthermore, Wang stated&nbsp;that there is no such thing as 'Japan's EEZ' in the area.&nbsp;

The G7 foreign ministers in their joint statement titled "Preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan strait" had called on China to resolve the tensions peacefully.&nbsp;

"We are concerned by recent and announced threatening actions by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), particularly live-fire exercises and economic coercion, which risk unnecessary escalation. There is no justification to use a visit as pretext for aggressive military activity in the Taiwan Strait," read the statement, of which Japan was a signatory.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miffed-china-shelves-bilateral-meeting-with-japan-after-g7-statement-on-taiwan-503600">Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement</a>

Ever since Nancy Pelosi announced her decision to visit Taiwan, China had been threatening of dire consequences. While it didn't do much when Pelosi was in Taipei, it sure has engaged its afterburners since then.

A day after completing its biggest military exercise around the island nation, China announced that&nbsp;more such military drills were in the pipeline, including anti-submarine and sea assault operations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

&nbsp;

In the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, tensions have risen between China and Japan. Reportedly, after Japan condemned China's military drills around Taiwan as a 'threat to regional peace and security', the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a lengthy statement questioning Tokyo's motives.

In the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, tensions have risen between China and Japan. Reportedly, after Japan condemned China's military drills around Taiwan as a 'threat to regional peace and security', the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a lengthy statement questioning Tokyo's motives. Wang Wenbin, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press conference, "Japan has been acting so high-profile on the Taiwan question. Has it forgotten the commitment it made when signing the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement? Is it trying to subvert the political foundation of China-Japan relations?" The ministry spokesperson further added, "Does it have the ambition to touch Taiwan again? Is Japan going to take this opportunity to expand its arms, abandon its pacifist constitution and abandon the path of peaceful development?" Read More: I don’t think they’re going to do anything more: Biden on Chinese military drills near Taiwan As reported extensively by WION, after Japan released a joint statement alongside G7 nations on Taiwan and Pelosi visited Japan, a miffed China fired five ballistic missiles in Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). However, at the conference, China's foreign ministry refused to accept that such an incident took place even place. Furthermore, Wang stated that there is no such thing as 'Japan's EEZ' in the area. The G7 foreign ministers in their joint statement titled "Preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan strait" had called on China to resolve the tensions peacefully. "We are concerned by recent and announced threatening actions by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), particularly live-fire exercises and economic coercion, which risk unnecessary escalation. There is no justification to use a visit as pretext for aggressive military activity in the Taiwan Strait," read the statement, of which Japan was a signatory. Read More: Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement Ever since Nancy Pelosi announced her decision to visit Taiwan, China had been threatening of dire consequences. While it didn't do much when Pelosi was in Taipei, it sure has engaged its afterburners since then. A day after completing its biggest military exercise around the island nation, China announced that more such military drills were in the pipeline, including anti-submarine and sea assault operations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

"Does it have the ambition to touch Taiwan again?", Chinese foreign ministry questions Japan

77 years of  Nagasaki Bombings| August 9, 1945: 'Fat Man' dropped on Nagasaki

Global Investment Funds have lost their valuations, putting the investors in massive losses. Japanese investor Softbank is the latest in the list as it has suffered a net loss of 3.16 trillion yen or 23.34 billion dollars for the quarter end.

Softbank: Global startups feeling the heat of a slowing economy

SoftBank (SFTBF) unveiled a $23 billion quarterly net loss on Monday, its biggest ever, as a market sell-off upended tech stocks and shredded valuations at its sprawling Vision Fund unit.

The pain in the April-June quarter comes fresh after the closely watched Vision Fund posted a record $26 billion loss in May, when rising interest rates and political instability disrupted global markets and could test investor willingness to stomach further big losses.

SoftBank founder and CEO Masayoshi Son has already pledged to tighten investing criteria and preserve cash to ride out the downturn and on Monday he signaled cuts to headcount at the Vision Fund, saying there were no "sacred areas."

"The world is in great confusion," Son told a briefing after the release of the results, remarking on the tech sell-off. But he acknowledged the company had invested in more startups than it should have and that valuations had been "in a bubble."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-block-sale-of-chinese-phones-priced-below-150-report-504811" hreflang="en">India to block sale of Chinese phones priced below $150: Report</a>

SoftBank also said it had authorized a share repurchase program worth up to 400 billion yen, something that could assuage investors.

Overall, the sliding portfolio pushed SoftBank to a 3.16 trillion yen ($23.4 billion) net loss in the latest quarter — its largest loss ever. That compared with profit of 761.5 billion yen in the same period a year earlier.

The Vision Fund unit saw a $23.1 billion hit in value.

Listed investments that suffered a fall in value included robotics firm AutoStore Holdings Ltd and artificial intelligence firm SenseTime Group Inc.

SoftBank said it wrote down the value of unlisted assets across its two Vision Funds by 1.14 trillion yen. Analysts have said writedowns of these private assets were unlikely to reflect the extent of current market weakness.

To raise cash, SoftBank has exited companies including ridehailer Uber Technologies (UBER) and home-selling platform Opendoor Technologies, for a total gain of $5.6 billion.

SoftBank sold Uber at an average share price of $41.47, compared to the Friday closing price of $32.01. 
The second Vision Fund's stakes in 269 firms were worth $37.2 billion at end-June, compared with an acquisition cost of $48.2 billion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-people-queue-up-at-fuel-stations-after-52-surge-in-fuel-prices-504780">Bangladesh: People queue up at fuel stations after 52% surge in fuel prices</a>

Plunging initial public offering volumes and market skepticism towards money-losing startups have squeezed an important source of capital for SoftBank, which hopes to list chip designer Arm following the collapse of a sale to Nvidia (NVDA).

SoftBank hasn't been the only casualty of the tech sell-off.

Hedge fund Tiger Global, which competes with "unicorn hunter" Son on deals, saw its flagship fund fall 50% in the first half of the year after it underestimated the impact of surging inflation on markets.

Berkshire Hathaway booked a $44 billion quarterly loss on its investments and derivatives, with Chief Executive Warren Buffett urging investors to ignore the fluctuations.

SoftBank (SFTBF) unveiled a $23 billion quarterly net loss on Monday, its biggest ever, as a market sell-off upended tech stocks and shredded valuations at its sprawling Vision Fund unit.

SoftBank (SFTBF) unveiled a $23 billion quarterly net loss on Monday, its biggest ever, as a market sell-off upended tech stocks and shredded valuations at its sprawling Vision Fund unit. The pain in the April-June quarter comes fresh after the closely watched Vision Fund posted a record $26 billion loss in May, when rising interest rates and political instability disrupted global markets and could test investor willingness to stomach further big losses. SoftBank founder and CEO Masayoshi Son has already pledged to tighten investing criteria and preserve cash to ride out the downturn and on Monday he signaled cuts to headcount at the Vision Fund, saying there were no "sacred areas." "The world is in great confusion," Son told a briefing after the release of the results, remarking on the tech sell-off. But he acknowledged the company had invested in more startups than it should have and that valuations had been "in a bubble." Also read | India to block sale of Chinese phones priced below $150: Report SoftBank also said it had authorized a share repurchase program worth up to 400 billion yen, something that could assuage investors. Overall, the sliding portfolio pushed SoftBank to a 3.16 trillion yen ($23.4 billion) net loss in the latest quarter — its largest loss ever. That compared with profit of 761.5 billion yen in the same period a year earlier. The Vision Fund unit saw a $23.1 billion hit in value. Listed investments that suffered a fall in value included robotics firm AutoStore Holdings Ltd and artificial intelligence firm SenseTime Group Inc. SoftBank said it wrote down the value of unlisted assets across its two Vision Funds by 1.14 trillion yen. Analysts have said writedowns of these private assets were unlikely to reflect the extent of current market weakness. To raise cash, SoftBank has exited companies including ridehailer Uber Technologies (UBER) and home-selling platform Opendoor Technologies, for a total gain of $5.6 billion. SoftBank sold Uber at an average share price of $41.47, compared to the Friday closing price of $32.01. The second Vision Fund's stakes in 269 firms were worth $37.2 billion at end-June, compared with an acquisition cost of $48.2 billion. Also read | Bangladesh: People queue up at fuel stations after 52% surge in fuel prices Plunging initial public offering volumes and market skepticism towards money-losing startups have squeezed an important source of capital for SoftBank, which hopes to list chip designer Arm following the collapse of a sale to Nvidia (NVDA). SoftBank hasn't been the only casualty of the tech sell-off. Hedge fund Tiger Global, which competes with "unicorn hunter" Son on deals, saw its flagship fund fall 50% in the first half of the year after it underestimated the impact of surging inflation on markets. Berkshire Hathaway booked a $44 billion quarterly loss on its investments and derivatives, with Chief Executive Warren Buffett urging investors to ignore the fluctuations.

SoftBank posts record $23 billion loss on Vision Fund pain

Japan is observing the 77th anniversary of world's first atomic bombing on this day in the year 1945 on the Japenese city of Hiroshima. 75,000 people died and an entire city obliterated. The United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres at the 77th Anniversary warned of a new arms race following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

UN Chief calls for global nuclear disarmament on 77th anniversary of Hiroshima bombing

From Israel hitting Gaza with air strikes to Japan PM Kishida meeting UN Secretary-General Guterres, here are some impactful images from around the world on 06 August 2022.

World in Pictures: Israel hit Gaza with air strikes; PM Kishida meets UN Secretary-General Guterres

Japan’s households increased spending for the first time in four months in June, as demand for travel services rose in a positive sign for broader economic recovery prospects.

Japan’s households raise spending for first time in 4 months

US House speaker Nancy Pelosi is on the last leg of a trip to Asia, she's currently in Tokyo after briefly stopping in Taiwan and infuriating Beijing who retaliated by launching its largest ever military drills around the island.

Japan lodges diplomatic protest with Beijing over drills

Chinese foreign ministry on Friday (July 5) expressed displeasure over recent Japanese statement and said that Japanese leaders were 'behaving very badly' over tensions in Taiwan Strait. The comment from China has come just two days after Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of US House of Representatives, visited Taiwan.

"Your leaders have recently behaved very badly over the Taiwan issue... Japan bears a serious historical responsibility on the Taiwan issue, and Japan is not qualified to say anything to China on the Taiwan issue," ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said during a regular briefing in Beijing.

China considers Taiwan as its own territory. It has not ruled-out using force to capture the self-ruled island. China was angry after Nancy Pelosi landed in Taiwan, China announced that it would hold 'targetted' military exercises in the Taiwan Strait.

The recent harsh remark from China has come in the wake of appeal from foreign ministers of G7 nations including Japan. The foreign ministers called on China on Wednesday to resolve tension around Taiwan Strait in peaceful manner. This led to China cancelling a planned meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Japanese counterpart.

Not longer after the briefing, China's foreign ministry announced in a statement that China has decided to sanction Pelosi and her immediate family in response to her "vicious" and "provocative" actions.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Chinese foreign ministry on Friday (July 5) expressed displeasure over recent Japanese statement and said that Japanese leaders were 'behaving very badly' over tensions in Taiwan Strait.

Chinese foreign ministry on Friday (July 5) expressed displeasure over recent Japanese statement and said that Japanese leaders were 'behaving very badly' over tensions in Taiwan Strait. The comment from China has come just two days after Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of US House of Representatives, visited Taiwan. "Your leaders have recently behaved very badly over the Taiwan issue... Japan bears a serious historical responsibility on the Taiwan issue, and Japan is not qualified to say anything to China on the Taiwan issue," ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said during a regular briefing in Beijing. China considers Taiwan as its own territory. It has not ruled-out using force to capture the self-ruled island. China was angry after Nancy Pelosi landed in Taiwan, China announced that it would hold 'targetted' military exercises in the Taiwan Strait. The recent harsh remark from China has come in the wake of appeal from foreign ministers of G7 nations including Japan. The foreign ministers called on China on Wednesday to resolve tension around Taiwan Strait in peaceful manner. This led to China cancelling a planned meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Japanese counterpart. Not longer after the briefing, China's foreign ministry announced in a statement that China has decided to sanction Pelosi and her immediate family in response to her "vicious" and "provocative" actions. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan is 'behaving very badly on Taiwan', says China

Japan is all set to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Nagasaki & Hiroshima. On August 6 & 9, Japanese Prime Ministers & local mayors attend annual memorial events.

Japan to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Nagasaki & Hiroshima

From Singapore to Malaysia to Taiwan to South Korea to Japan: Nancy Pelosi's whirlwind Asia-pacific tour

At least three people have been reported missing and around 500,000 were ordered to evacuate after torrential rainfall hit northern japan. The incessant rain has flooded roads that caused rivers to burst their banks in some regions.

WION Climate Tracker: Heavy rain hits parts of Northern Japan; 500,000 people ordered to evacuate

Miffed that its One-China policy is not being respected by the world leaders in the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan visit, China has shelved its bilateral meeting scheduled with Japan.

Reportedly, on the sidelines of the ASEAN event in Cambodia, the foreign ministers of the two countries were all set to meet. However, after Japan, along with the other G7 nations released a statement on Taiwan, Beijing effective immediately pulled the plug.&nbsp;

"The Chinese side is strongly displeased with the joint statement put out by the group of seven nations about Taiwan." said Hua Chunying, spokesperson of the Chinese foreign ministry.&nbsp;

The G7 statement on China and Taiwan

As reported by WION, the G7 foreign ministers in their joint statement titled "Preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan strait" called on China to resolve the tensions peacefully.&nbsp;

"We are concerned by recent and announced threatening actions by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), particularly live-fire exercises and economic coercion, which risk unnecessary escalation. There is no justification to use a visit as pretext for aggressive military activity in the Taiwan Strait," said the statement.

WATCH:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnzhfP2CjV0&amp;ab_channel=WION">&nbsp;G7: China destabilizing the region. Taiwan closely monitoring the drills</a>

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It further added that China's escalatory response could increase tensions and destabilise the region. Lastly, the statement asked China to not try and change the status quo in the region.

&nbsp;"We call on the PRC not to unilaterally change the status quo by force in the region, and to resolve cross-Strait differences by peaceful means. There is no change in the respective one China policies, where applicable, and basic positions on Taiwan of the G7 members." said G7&nbsp;foreign ministers.&nbsp;

China starts its biggest military exercise around Taiwan

Reportedly, a day after Nancy Pelosi&nbsp;concluded a whirlwind less than 24 hours visit to Taiwan, China started its biggest military exercise in six zones interspersed around the island nation.

In response to the Chinese threat, Taiwan has put its military on alert and already staged multiple civil defence drills. Meanwhile, the USA has moved its several naval assets in and around the conflict zone.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-starts-its-largest-ever-military-exercise-surrounding-taiwan-503504">China starts its largest-ever military exercise surrounding Taiwan</a>

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Miffed that its One-China policy is not being respected by the world leaders in the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan visit, China has shelved its bilateral meeting scheduled with Japan.

Miffed that its One-China policy is not being respected by the world leaders in the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's Taiwan visit, China has shelved its bilateral meeting scheduled with Japan. Reportedly, on the sidelines of the ASEAN event in Cambodia, the foreign ministers of the two countries were all set to meet. However, after Japan, along with the other G7 nations released a statement on Taiwan, Beijing effective immediately pulled the plug. "The Chinese side is strongly displeased with the joint statement put out by the group of seven nations about Taiwan." said Hua Chunying, spokesperson of the Chinese foreign ministry. The G7 statement on China and Taiwan As reported by WION, the G7 foreign ministers in their joint statement titled "Preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan strait" called on China to resolve the tensions peacefully. "We are concerned by recent and announced threatening actions by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), particularly live-fire exercises and economic coercion, which risk unnecessary escalation. There is no justification to use a visit as pretext for aggressive military activity in the Taiwan Strait," said the statement. WATCH: G7: China destabilizing the region. Taiwan closely monitoring the drills × It further added that China's escalatory response could increase tensions and destabilise the region. Lastly, the statement asked China to not try and change the status quo in the region. "We call on the PRC not to unilaterally change the status quo by force in the region, and to resolve cross-Strait differences by peaceful means. There is no change in the respective one China policies, where applicable, and basic positions on Taiwan of the G7 members." said G7 foreign ministers. China starts its biggest military exercise around Taiwan Reportedly, a day after Nancy Pelosi concluded a whirlwind less than 24 hours visit to Taiwan, China started its biggest military exercise in six zones interspersed around the island nation. In response to the Chinese threat, Taiwan has put its military on alert and already staged multiple civil defence drills. Meanwhile, the USA has moved its several naval assets in and around the conflict zone. Read More: China starts its largest-ever military exercise surrounding Taiwan (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement

A day after visiting Taiwan as the highest ranking US head in 25 years, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has now landed in Japan, as the final stop of her Asia-pacific trip.

A day after visiting Taiwan as the highest ranking US head in 25 years, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has now landed in Japan, as the final stop of her Asia-pacific trip. According to AFP, Pelosi landed at the Yokota Air base in Tokyo, arriving from South Korea. However, a few hours prior to her arrival, Japan's defence minister Nobuo Kishi informed the media that five out of nine Chinese ballistic missiles had landed in Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Terming the incident as 'first of its kind', Nobuo said, “Five of the nine ballistic missiles launched by China are believed to have landed within Japan’s EEZ." It is not a mere coincidence that China fired not one but five missiles on Japan's Okinawa island. After all, this is not the first time that China has conducted a military exercise surrounding Taiwan. A look at the events leading up to the military strike suggests that China had planned such an attack. The G7 statement on Taiwan It was long speculated that Pelosi might visit Japan after her layover in Taiwan. Tokyo is a part of the Quad and an axis that vehemently objects to China and its expansionist policies. Moreover, in the aftermath of Pelosi's Taiwan visit, Japan, alongside G7 countries released a statement advising China not to try and change the status quo in the region. Read more: Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: Chinese ballistic missiles land in Japan's exclusive economic zone "We call on the PRC not to unilaterally change the status quo by force in the region, and to resolve cross-Strait differences by peaceful means. There is no change in the respective one China policies, where applicable, and basic positions on Taiwan of the G7 members." said the statement. China cancels the bilateral meeting In an immediate reaction to the statement, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi cancelled his bilateral meeting scheduled with his Japanese counterpart on the sidelines of the ongoing ASEAN foreign ministers meet. Hence, it can be established that the firing of missiles on Japan's southernmost islands, beyond its territorial waters was a warning sign for Tokyo to ease its Taiwan rhetoric. It all started with Japan's G7 statement, which reached a crescendo when it was revealed that Pelosi was indeed visiting Japan and culminated with the ballistic missile attack. Read More: Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement Whatever happens next from here could shape the future of the region. Tension and instability, however, has increased in the meantime. As for Pelosi, it is being reported by the Japanese media that she might hold separate meetings with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Japan’s House of Representatives Speaker Hiroyuki Hosoda. Chinese military exercise around Taiwan As reported by WION extensively, ever since Nancy Pelosi announced her decision to visit Taiwan, China had been threatening of dire consequences. While it didn't do much when Pelosi was in Taipei, it sure has engaged its afterburners since yesterday. Reportedly, China's navy, air force and other departments have taken part in the drill which is underway in six zones interspersed around Taiwan. According to Taiwan, a total of 11 Dongfeng ballistic missiles have already been launched into waters near Taiwan's northern, southern and eastern coasts "in several batches". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nancy Pelosi lands in Japan: China fires missile on Japan and cancels bilateral meeting on the same day

A day after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi completed a whirlwind less than 24-hour trip to Taiwan, a miffed China has started its largest military exercise around Taiwan. Now, five of its nine ballistic missiles have landed in Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ), increasing tension in the region and threatening instability.&nbsp;

Japan's defence minister Nobuo Kishi termed the incident as 'first of its kind' and was quoted as saying by the media, “Five of the nine ballistic missiles launched by China are believed to have landed within Japan’s EEZ,"&nbsp;

Reportedly, Japan has also lodged a diplomatic protest in the aftermath of the incident. The Japanese minister also called the matter a serious problem that affected the national security of the country and the safety of its citizens.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that islands such as Okinawa, situated in the southernmost end of Japan are close to Taiwan. The EEZ extends to over 370 kilometres from Japan's coastline, beyond its territorial waters.&nbsp;

And since China started its major military exercise surrounding Taiwan, it was only a matter of time before a stray missile could have ended on one of the islands.

Is China taking revenge for the G7 statement?

However, experts are of the view that the landing of five ballistic missiles cannot be a coincidence. China and Japan have been historic enemies. Even after the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chinese social media platforms were replete with users who were cheering the assassination.&nbsp;

Moreover, China attacking Japan, comes in the aftermath of Tokyo condemning Beijing in the G7 joint statement and advising it not to try and change the status quo in the region.

Reportedly, after the G7 joint statement, the Chinese foreign minister cancelled its bilateral meeting with Japan that was scheduled to take place on the sidelines of the ongoing ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Cambodia.

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miffed-china-shelves-bilateral-meeting-with-japan-after-g7-statement-on-taiwan-503600" target="_blank">&nbsp;Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement</a>

Chinese military exercise around Taiwan

As reported by WION extensively, ever since Nancy Pelosi announced her decision to visit Taiwan, China had been threatening of dire consequences. While it didn't do much when Pelosi was in Taipei, it sure has engaged its afterburners since yesterday.&nbsp;

Reportedly, China's navy, air force and other departments have taken part in the drill which is underway in six zones interspersed around Taiwan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-says-china-launched-11-ballistic-missiles-near-its-waters-503604">According </a>to Taiwan, a total of 11 Dongfeng ballistic missiles have already been launched into waters near Taiwan's northern, southern and eastern coasts "in several batches".

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-starts-its-largest-ever-military-exercise-surrounding-taiwan-503504" target="_blank">China starts its largest-ever military exercise surrounding Taiwan</a>

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

A day after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi completed a whirlwind less than 24-hour trip to Taiwan, a miffed China has started its largest military exercise around Taiwan.

A day after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi completed a whirlwind less than 24-hour trip to Taiwan, a miffed China has started its largest military exercise around Taiwan. Now, five of its nine ballistic missiles have landed in Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ), increasing tension in the region and threatening instability. Japan's defence minister Nobuo Kishi termed the incident as 'first of its kind' and was quoted as saying by the media, “Five of the nine ballistic missiles launched by China are believed to have landed within Japan’s EEZ," Reportedly, Japan has also lodged a diplomatic protest in the aftermath of the incident. The Japanese minister also called the matter a serious problem that affected the national security of the country and the safety of its citizens. It is pertinent to note that islands such as Okinawa, situated in the southernmost end of Japan are close to Taiwan. The EEZ extends to over 370 kilometres from Japan's coastline, beyond its territorial waters. And since China started its major military exercise surrounding Taiwan, it was only a matter of time before a stray missile could have ended on one of the islands. Is China taking revenge for the G7 statement? However, experts are of the view that the landing of five ballistic missiles cannot be a coincidence. China and Japan have been historic enemies. Even after the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chinese social media platforms were replete with users who were cheering the assassination. Moreover, China attacking Japan, comes in the aftermath of Tokyo condemning Beijing in the G7 joint statement and advising it not to try and change the status quo in the region. Reportedly, after the G7 joint statement, the Chinese foreign minister cancelled its bilateral meeting with Japan that was scheduled to take place on the sidelines of the ongoing ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Cambodia. Read More: Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement Chinese military exercise around Taiwan As reported by WION extensively, ever since Nancy Pelosi announced her decision to visit Taiwan, China had been threatening of dire consequences. While it didn't do much when Pelosi was in Taipei, it sure has engaged its afterburners since yesterday. Reportedly, China's navy, air force and other departments have taken part in the drill which is underway in six zones interspersed around Taiwan. According to Taiwan, a total of 11 Dongfeng ballistic missiles have already been launched into waters near Taiwan's northern, southern and eastern coasts "in several batches". Read More: China starts its largest-ever military exercise surrounding Taiwan (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: Chinese ballistic missiles land in Japan's exclusive economic zone

The searing heat across the planet has not only affected humans but animals as well. Now, a Tokyo-based clothing maker named Sweet Mommy has come up with a novel clothing solution that may help pet animals brave the scorching heat.&nbsp;

Working with a group of veterinarians, the clothing company has added wearable fans to the clothes of pets. Attached to a mesh outfit is a wearable fan that weighs 80 grammes and is operated by a battery.

Reportedly, the device blows air, all around the animal's body and comes in five different sizes. The reception has been fairly decent as well. Since its debut in July, the company has already received more than 100 orders. A single piece costs as much as $74.&nbsp;

<img alt="83mr83hg" src="https://c.ndtvimg.com/2022-08/83mr83hg_cats_625x300_01_August_22.jpg" />

Speaking about the motivation behind the ingenious&nbsp;design, Rei Uzawa, the president of the company said, "There was almost no rainy season this year, so the hot days came early, and in that sense, I think we developed a product that is right for the market,"

Pet owners in Japan have been using dry-ice packs to keep their pets cool. However, with pets roaming around frequently, it becomes harder to keep it strapped on. The ergonomic design of the device by Rei Uzawa and her company is expected to bring relief to both the pets and their owners.&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;Japan: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-government-calls-for-highest-level-of-vigilance-as-covid-cases-rise-499841">Government calls for `highest level of vigilance` as Covid cases rise</a>

Why has the need for such clothes arisen in Japan?

It is pertinent to note that Japan has already witnessed its hottest day ever in the month of June when the temperature crossed the 35ºC barrier. It was the highest temperature ever recorded since record-keeping began in 1875.&nbsp;

The rise in mercury was unusual for the month of June as it is considered a rainy season. However, after the hot weather persisted,&nbsp;the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) was forced to declare an end to the rainy season in the capital city of Tokyo and surrounding areas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

The searing heat across the planet has not only affected humans but animals as well. Now, a Tokyo-based clothing maker named Sweet Mommy has come up with a novel clothing solution that may help pet animals brave the scorching heat.

The searing heat across the planet has not only affected humans but animals as well. Now, a Tokyo-based clothing maker named Sweet Mommy has come up with a novel clothing solution that may help pet animals brave the scorching heat. Working with a group of veterinarians, the clothing company has added wearable fans to the clothes of pets. Attached to a mesh outfit is a wearable fan that weighs 80 grammes and is operated by a battery. Reportedly, the device blows air, all around the animal's body and comes in five different sizes. The reception has been fairly decent as well. Since its debut in July, the company has already received more than 100 orders. A single piece costs as much as $74. Speaking about the motivation behind the ingenious design, Rei Uzawa, the president of the company said, "There was almost no rainy season this year, so the hot days came early, and in that sense, I think we developed a product that is right for the market," Pet owners in Japan have been using dry-ice packs to keep their pets cool. However, with pets roaming around frequently, it becomes harder to keep it strapped on. The ergonomic design of the device by Rei Uzawa and her company is expected to bring relief to both the pets and their owners. Read More: Japan: Government calls for `highest level of vigilance` as Covid cases rise Why has the need for such clothes arisen in Japan? It is pertinent to note that Japan has already witnessed its hottest day ever in the month of June when the temperature crossed the 35ºC barrier. It was the highest temperature ever recorded since record-keeping began in 1875. The rise in mercury was unusual for the month of June as it is considered a rainy season. However, after the hot weather persisted, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) was forced to declare an end to the rainy season in the capital city of Tokyo and surrounding areas. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wearable fans in clothes? Pet animals in Japan get a breather from the scorching heat

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