Jul 14 , 2020. 14 minutes ago – 16:50 KYODO NEWS

TOKYO – The Japanese government is considering issuing business suspension requests to host clubs and other similar establishments that have not taken sufficient measures to stem the coronavirus spread, a minister said Tuesday.

The move comes amid a rising number of confirmed cases related to nightlife establishments, particularly in major commercial and entertainment districts in Tokyo, fueling increasing concerns among the public of a resurgence of the pandemic.

Tokyo on Tuesday confirmed 143 new coronavirus infections, remaining below 200 for the second day in a row, Gov. Yuriko Koike said.

The daily figures announced by the metropolitan government reflect the most recent totals reported by health authorities and medical institutions in the capital.

Prior to Monday, new cases in Tokyo had topped 200 for a record four straight days, hitting its single-day high of 243 last Friday. The capital’s infection cases have now exceeded 8,000, accounting for more than a third of the nationwide tally of over 22,000.

Economic revitalization minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who is also in charge of the coronavirus response, said at a press conference that a subcommittee of the government’s coronavirus task force will hold a meeting in the near future to consult with experts before deciding how to address the surge.

The envisioned business suspension requests are voluntary with no penalties imposed for noncompliance, and will target establishments not enforcing guidelines such as mask-wearing and ventilating venues. Customers will also be asked not to patronize establishments not abiding by the guidelines.

Requests for businesses to temporarily close fall under the authority of prefectural governors as granted by an act on special measures related to the coronavirus pandemic.

Some local governments have already made moves to address the growing number of new infections in their jurisdiction, with Saitama Prefecture on Monday issuing business suspension requests to nightlife establishments not doing enough to stem the spread of the virus.

Nishimura said the central government will also reconsider its decision to further ease spectator limits at pro sports and other events around Aug. 1 after consulting with experts.

Japan last Friday relaxed its guidance for spectators at concerts and other events to a maximum of 5,000 from the previous 1,000, while the capacity at indoor venues must be kept at 50 percent or below the usual level.

CR:KYODO NEWS