According to a survey conducted by the Nikkei Shimbun and TV Tokyo during August 23-25, approval ratings for the Abe Cabinet increased five points since last month and stands at 68% while disapproval ratings have decreased by six points at 23%. Moreover, approval of the cabinet’s economic policies remained at 56% while disapproval ratings experienced a three point decrease and stands at 26%.

Meanwhile, 70% of respondents have said they accept the proposed consumption tax hike with 17% saying that the sales tax should be increased as planned, 55% that it should be increased at a gradual pace and 24% oppose the tax hike. With over 50% of respondents calling for the hike to be implemented incrementally, this could possibly influence Prime Minister Abe’s final decision.

Support for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) also appears to be on the rise. 48% of respondents stated that they support the initiative (an increase of six points from last month), while 30% voiced opposition (three points down from last month).

For further details, access the original article in Japanese.