Japan PM Abe to confirm 18-month delay for sales tax hike and announce plans to call a general election of lower house later today - Nikkei
- Plans to make a "cool-headed" analysis of the tax question and warn about the risks of deflation in the context of higher sales tax.
- Prior to announcing decision, will consult with Fin Min Aso and other cabinet members.
- Postponing the increase would require new legislation.