経済｜1円玉が11年ぶりに量産される理由 / Economy | The Reason Why One-Yen Coins Are Being Mass-Produced for the First Time in 11 Years

Summary

Recently, the Japan Mint announced that it will begin mass production of one-yen coins for the first time in 11 years.

Previously, 500,000 coins were issued annually, but this will now increase to 132 million coins. As cashless payments become more widespread, the rising prices are leading to an increase in cash transactions, which could impact economic activities. The Ministry of Finance and the Japan Mint have provided explanations regarding this development.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Log: Hey Chako, did you know that 1-yen coins are going to be mass-produced again for the first time in 11 years?
Chako: Really? Why are they making so many?
Log: It’s because prices are rising and cash transactions are increasing. In a world that’s moving towards cashless payments, why do we need 1-yen coins?
Chako: Maybe it’s because the cost of snacks is going up, and that’s why everyone is using cash!
Navi: Just to add, the mass production of 1-yen coins is seen as a measure to respond to changes in the economy, particularly due to the impact of rising prices.

Admin’s Note

It was surprising to hear that the mass production of one-yen coins has resumed for the first time in 11 years. Given the advancements towards a cashless society, it’s unexpected to see an increase in cash transactions. I didn’t think that the impact of rising prices would affect the demand for cash to this extent. As we observe the future economic situation, I’m interested to see how the balance between cash and cashless payments evolves.