Tokyo launches eco-point program

The Japanese government announced a line-up of 271 goods and services, including gift certificates and electronic money services, which have been designated as exchangeable for points that consumers can earn under the government’s ”eco-point” system. In a related move, it also began accepting applications 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. The subsidy for fuel-efficient cars is ¥100,000 (US$1,073) for a new standard car and ¥50,000 (US$536) for a mini-vehicle. (June 19, 2009)