Japan to end COVID-19 state of emergency for all 19 prefs. at end of Sept.

TOKYO. KAZINFORM The Japanese government is set to end the COVID-19 state of emergency covering Tokyo and 18 prefectures when it expires at the end of this month, a source familiar with the matter said Monday.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga told reporters that his government will make a formal decision on Tuesday, adding that it is necessary to ease restrictions gradually, Kyodo reports.