Seasonal allergies sap Japan's economy of $2.7bn in spending: report

In war on pollen, cedar trees targeted for logging and broader use

20230612N Pollen haze

The Japanese government has pledged to halve pollen emissions in 30 years through increased logging of cedar trees. (Photo by Akiyoshi Inoue)

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- Japan's severe hay fever season this year stood to curtail household spending by $2.7 billion, according to one estimate, with the government moving to cut off the pollen at the source by stepping up logging of domestic cedar trees.

Springtime in Japan brings misery to millions as pollen, most notably from sugi Japanese cedar, spreads over the country and causes symptoms that can drag on for months.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.