In an unprecedented move, Tokyo municipal government has decided to subsidize fertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF). This assistance underlines the city's commitment to helping couples struggling with infertility and its broader efforts to combat Japan's declining population. The specifics about the amount of funding or eligibility criteria are yet to be disclosed.

Japan has one of the world's lowest birth rates, partially due to high infertility rates and the usual high-cost of fertility treatments, deterring many couples from seeking help. The decision by the Tokyo city government reflects an increased societal openness about discussing infertility, a topic traditionally considered taboo. This policy may also influence other prefectures to follow suit offering similar subsidies.

In the U.S. and EU, funding for fertility treatments including IVF varies widely. In the U.S., coverage is typically dependent on individual health insurance policies and state laws, and is not universally funded by the government. In contrast, several EU countries, like France and Sweden, do offer government-funded treatments, albeit with specific eligibility requirements.