Press Conference by KATAYAMA Satsuki, Minister of Finance and Minister of State for Financial Services

(Excerpt)

(Tuesday, December ９, 2025, ８:35 am to ８:43 am)

Q.

Last night, a strong earthquake occurred over a wide area from Hokkaido to the Tohoku region, and the Off the Coast of Hokkaido and Sanriku Subsequent Earthquake Advisory was issued. Please tell us the Minister’s views on how the Ministry of Finance and the Financial Services Agency will respond.

A.

First, at the outset, I would like to express my heartfelt sympathy to those affected, those currently evacuating, and all others involved.
As for our response, economic activities will resume in the morning, but since there are various matters related to financial institutions and the like, we intend to address those matters thoroughly and without omission.

Q.

I’d like to ask about the recent increase in multiple debts. As of the end of March 2025, the number of multiple debtors reached 1.47 million. First, could you please share your views on this? Also, I would appreciate it if you could share your understanding of the challenges associated with this issue.

A.

I am aware of the increase to 1.47 million as of the end of March 2025, as you pointed out. If multiple debts refer to a situation where numerous borrowers have incurred overlapping or cumulative debts resulting from loans from entities engaged in money lending businesses, then I believe factors such as rising living costs owing to inflation may indeed be contributing to the recent increase. The Financial Services Agency will strive to understand the actual situation of loan service users through our annual survey, which investigates their borrowing purposes and other factors. We will also intensify our efforts to address multiple debtors by promoting awareness of our multiple debt consultation services and enhancing cooperation with relevant departments.