Japan mulls easing virus border controls

Japan is considering easing its stringent border controls amid growing criticism that the measures, which have banned most foreign entrants including students and business travelers, are hurting the country's economy and international profile.

Kishida said he will make a decision based on a scientific assessment of the omicron variant. The current border rules allow in only Japanese nationals and permanent foreign residents, and have raised the anger of foreign students and scholars who say the measures are unfair, unscientific and force talented visitors to go to other countries.

Currently, most of Japan is under virus-related restrictions but infections have shown little signs of slowing. The current border measures are scheduled to remain in place until the end of February.