Japan has had a "temporary" gas tax for decades. It's often listed as one of the reasons Japan has excelled in making such efficient cars. Revenue went to earmarked road construction and other, largely thought to be pork, but vehemently defended by others.

Due to fighting between a newly empowered opposition party and the traditional ruling party, it was just allowed to EXPIRE entirely.



Regular dropped from 144 to 119 yen per litter. What is this change in America units? I calculate about 94.8425 cents per gallon. Car dealerships and other places have been said to be in "chaos" and there are a flurry of new fears of the strength of Japanese car models in the domestic market, and political stability with (heaven forbid!) a new 2 party system. *gasp*

And I remember back in good old 2005 when it was 70 some yen per litter, lol!



Anyway, most of you might not care. And I would call you ignorant for that. Someone just turned up the heat in the land of the rising sun

[Edited on April 1, 2008 at 7:54 AM. Reason : ]

4/1/2008 7:53:26 AM

Hmm. I'm guessing the oil supply is decreasing as we type.

4/1/2008 8:02:07 AM

No, you're right...

In case this wasn't already apparent, yes, this puts greater pressure on the worldwide demand for oil. It's probably a drop in the bucket compared to some other market factors though.

4/1/2008 8:14:44 AM

With demand for oil increasing and production capacity operating at near maximum or at least very high levels in a number of regions, a drop in the bucket may actually matter.

4/1/2008 8:23:14 AM

Here's an article (usually helpful): http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20080401a1.html

Prices are expected to go back up at the end of April.

4/1/2008 8:28:41 AM

http://youtube.com/watch?v=WIsou0IRIQU

4/1/2008 12:28:24 PM