Update Title: New podcast new podcast edited update

Since July 25, no concrete discussions had been conducted, and so the labor ministry and other parties continued negotiations behind the scenes. As a result, it is expected that the national weighted average of the minimum wage will be increased by at least 30 yen (23 cents), taking into consideration price increases and the fact that wages have also been increasing at small- and medium-sized businesses. Guidelines for the minimum wage are usually settled between mid and late July each year. Last year, under the political leadership of then Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, who was enthusiastic about raising the minimum wage, an increase of 28 yen per hour was fixed, which was the highest hike ever at the time. The management side complained about this decision, however, and took the unusual move of calling for a vote.