The number of local governments in Japan that can manage their finances without receiving tax allocations from the state has increased for the fourth consecutive year. According to the internal affairs ministry, 85 local governments achieved this status in fiscal 2025, which is two more than the previous year. This growth is attributed to rising local tax revenues driven by strong corporate performance.

During a cabinet meeting, internal affairs minister Seiichiro Murakami announced the amounts of ordinary tax allocations for fiscal 2025 intended to help local governments with financial shortages. Notably, Tokyo is the only one of Japan's 47 prefectures that does not receive these tax allocations. The list of nonrecipients also includes various cities, towns, and villages. Among them, Kikuyo town in Kumamoto prefecture became a nonrecipient for the first time due to its economic developments linked to a plant operated by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, a leading semiconductor manufacturer.

Original article

Here is my assessment of the article's value:

Actionable Information: The article does not provide any immediate actions for readers to take. It informs about the number of local governments managing their finances independently and the distribution of tax allocations. However, it lacks specific steps or strategies for individuals to implement.

Educational Depth: While the article presents data on local government finances, it does not delve deeply into the underlying causes or provide comprehensive explanations. It mentions rising tax revenues and corporate performance but fails to educate readers on the economic factors driving these changes. A more educational piece would explore the reasons behind these financial shifts and their potential long-term impacts.

Personal Relevance: The topic may have limited personal relevance for many readers. Unless they are directly involved in local government finances or have a strong interest in economic policies, the information might not significantly impact their daily lives. However, for those concerned about local governance and financial sustainability, it could be relevant.

Public Service Function: The article does not serve an immediate public service function. It does not provide official warnings, safety guidelines, or emergency contacts. Instead, it focuses on reporting financial data and government announcements, which may be of interest to specific audiences but does not offer practical tools or resources for the general public.

Practicality of Advice: As the article primarily presents financial data and government announcements, it does not offer practical advice or tips. There are no actionable steps or strategies for individuals to apply in their personal or professional lives.

Long-Term Impact: The article's focus on financial data and government announcements suggests a short-term perspective. While it provides an update on the current situation, it does not offer insights or ideas for long-term planning or sustainable practices. The information may be useful for understanding the present, but it lacks guidance for future financial stability or economic development.

Emotional or Psychological Impact: The article is unlikely to have a significant emotional or psychological impact on readers. It presents facts and figures without engaging with the potential emotional responses or implications. Readers may find the information informative, but it is not designed to evoke strong emotions or provide psychological support.

Clickbait or Ad-Driven Words: The article does not employ clickbait or sensational language. It presents the information in a straightforward manner, avoiding dramatic or exaggerated claims. The language is factual and objective, focusing on reporting the data and government announcements.

Missed Opportunities: The article could have enhanced its value by including more context and analysis. It could have explored the economic factors influencing local government finances, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the trends. Additionally, including interviews or insights from experts in local governance or economics would have added practical value and guidance for readers interested in these topics.

In summary, the article provides an update on local government finances and tax allocations but lacks actionable information, educational depth, and practical advice. While it serves a purpose for those closely following these issues, it may not resonate with a broader audience seeking real-world applications or long-term impact.

The text describes a situation where local governments in Japan are becoming more financially independent, which, at first glance, may seem like a positive development. However, when evaluating this through the lens of ancestral duty and the protection of kinship bonds, certain concerns arise.

The rise in local tax revenues and the subsequent financial independence of some local governments could potentially shift the focus away from the core responsibilities of families and communities. If local governments become increasingly reliant on corporate performance and tax revenues, there is a risk that the natural duties of families to care for their own, especially the vulnerable elders and children, may be diminished.

In a community where financial independence is valued above all else, there is a danger that the care and protection of kin could be seen as a burden or an unnecessary expense. This could lead to a breakdown in family cohesion and a neglect of the most basic duties, which are essential for the survival and continuity of the clan.

The example of Kikuyo town, which became financially independent due to the success of a semiconductor plant, highlights this potential issue. While economic development is important, it should not come at the cost of family responsibilities and the care of the next generation. The town's success, while bringing financial benefits, should not be allowed to erode the natural bonds and duties that families have towards each other.

Furthermore, the text mentions that Tokyo, along with other cities, towns, and villages, continues to receive tax allocations. This suggests that there are still many local communities that rely on external support for their financial stability. If this support is withdrawn or reduced, it could place an even greater burden on families and communities, potentially forcing them to neglect their duties to care for their own.

The survival of a community and its people depends on a delicate balance between economic prosperity and the preservation of social structures that support procreative families. If the pursuit of financial independence leads to a neglect of family duties, it could have severe long-term consequences. Birth rates may decline, and the care and protection of the vulnerable could be compromised, leading to a breakdown in community trust and a failure to uphold the ancestral principles of stewardship and survival.

The consequences of unchecked acceptance of these ideas and behaviors are clear: a potential decline in birth rates, a weakened sense of community, and a failure to protect and nurture the next generation. This would result in a community that is unable to sustain itself, with a diminished capacity to care for its land and resources, and a loss of the very essence that defines a clan and its survival.

It is essential that local communities and families remain vigilant and aware of these potential pitfalls. The protection of kin and the preservation of family duties must always be at the forefront of any economic or social development. Only then can a community truly thrive and ensure its survival for generations to come.

"The number of local governments in Japan that can manage their finances without receiving tax allocations from the state has increased for the fourth consecutive year."

This sentence uses positive language to describe the increase in financially independent local governments. It highlights their ability to manage finances, which could be seen as a virtue-signaling technique, implying that these governments are competent and successful. The focus on their independence may downplay the role of state support and the potential challenges faced by other local governments.

The text conveys a sense of optimism and progress regarding Japan's local governments and their financial management. This emotion is evident throughout the passage, with a focus on the positive development of local tax revenues and the increasing number of self-sufficient governments. The tone is upbeat, highlighting the growth and success of these local entities.

The emotion of pride is also present, particularly when discussing the achievements of specific localities. For instance, the mention of Kikuyo town becoming a nonrecipient of tax allocations due to its economic developments showcases a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. This emotion is further emphasized by the town's connection to a leading semiconductor manufacturer, suggesting a successful collaboration and a boost to the local economy.

These emotions guide the reader's reaction by creating a positive perception of Japan's local governments and their financial capabilities. The text aims to inspire confidence and a sense of progress, showcasing how strong corporate performance and economic developments can lead to financial independence for local entities.

To persuade the reader, the writer employs a strategic choice of words, emphasizing the positive aspects and achievements. For example, the use of the phrase "strong corporate performance" paints a picture of a thriving business environment, which in turn leads to positive outcomes for local governments. The repetition of the idea that more local governments are becoming self-sufficient also reinforces this positive message.

Additionally, the personal story of Kikuyo town adds a human element to the narrative, making the abstract concept of financial management more tangible and relatable. By comparing the town's economic developments to a leading manufacturer, the writer creates a sense of scale and significance, further enhancing the emotional impact.

Overall, the text skillfully employs emotional language and storytelling techniques to convey a positive message, aiming to inspire and encourage a sense of progress and achievement.