Japan's Abe calls for public works spending plan to support economy - Reuters

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday called for a new public works spending program to stimulate the economy and ensure the recovery continues amid rising protectionism.

The spending expected in the first half of next fiscal year will focus on strengthening infrastructure to withstand earthquakes and frequent flooding, according to a presentation made at the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy (CEFP).  

Some of Japan's top government advisers also called for stimulus to counter the negative impact of the nationwide sales tax in October next year.