Japan Studies Stablecoin Refunds for Foreign Tourists Ahead of Tax Shift

Japan’s Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Minister Tatsunori Ibayashi said the government will study stablecoins as a way to refund consumption tax to foreign visitors under a coming tax-free shopping overhaul. Ibayashi raised the payment option in remarks to a House of Representatives committee. Stablecoin use remains under study, while the change to Japan’s refund system is scheduled for purchases made on or after Nov. 1, 2026. Under the new system, eligible visitors will pay a price that includes consumption tax when they shop.