Gov’t announces eco-point goods, accepts requests for eco-car subsidy

The government announced Friday a lineup of 271 goods and services, including gift certificates and electronic money services, which have been designated as exchangeable for points consumers can earn under the government’s ”eco-point” system. In a related move, it also began accepting applications Friday for subsidies to be provided to consumers who purchase electric-gasoline hybrids, zero-emission electric vehicles and other fuel-efficient cars. Consumers will be able to trade in the so-called eco-points they accumulate from buying designated eco-friendly electronic household appliances for goods such as regional specialty products from across Japan, government officials said. They can start applying to exchange their points for the goods and services from July 1 via the Internet or by mail. The procedure for car subsidies involves auto dealers filing the applications on behalf of purchasers with the Next Generation Vehicle Promotion Center, which is in charge of screening them, and the subsidies are to be disbursed in several weeks. If consumers buy new fuel-efficient cars without trading in old cars, a subsidy of 100,000 yen will be given for a new standard car and 50,000 yen for a mini-vehicle. (June 19, 2009)