Most Japanese firms against holding Tokyo Olympics in 2021

Over half of 12,857 Japanese companies that Tokyo Shoko Research surveyed between July 28 and Aug. 11 are against holding the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics in the summer of 2021.

Of the 53.6 percent not in favor of holding the Olympics as currently planned, there was 27.8 percent that wants the Tokyo Games to be canceled while 25.8 percent said it should be postponed again.

Of the responding firms, there was 46.2 percent that says the games should go ahead in some way, with 22.5 percent in favor of holding the Olympics as planned.

Some 18.4 percent prefer the event to be held but with fewer spectators and 5.3 percent without any spectators.

Under the current plan, a simplified Olympics will begin on July 23.

With fewer visitors anticipated, there are falling expectations for the economic benefits that the Tokyo Olympics would bring.

Over 60,000 coronavirus infections have been reported in Japan, with over 18,000 in Tokyo.