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Business trends

Japan to let taxis deliver food nationwide in pandemic response

Government to make special measures permanent as needs remain and benefits seen

Taxi operator Takara Kotsu began food delivery service in April in the city of Nagoya as the Japanese government allowed taxis to transport goods in an exceptional easing of regulations amid the coronavirus outbreak. (Photo courtesy of Takara Kotsu)

TOKYO -- Japan will lift restrictions nationwide on food and drink delivery by taxi in October, Nikkei has learned, essentially making permanent what has been a temporary measure implemented as a response to the coronavirus pandemic.

In April, the government relaxed current rules that only allow taxis to carry passengers as special countermeasure to fight the spread of COVID-19. But it turned out that many people welcome the idea of using taxis for food delivery as they increasingly stay home or work from their residences as part of social distancing.

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