Heavily indebted Japan should rethink outlays on programs aimed at helping women, the environment and foreigners, according to a summary of responses to an online government survey published Friday.?

A taskforce set up in December in an effort to emulate the Trump administration¡¯s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had sought cost-cutting suggestions from the public over the two months to Feb. 26. The results will be considered as part of budget and tax deliberations for the fiscal year starting April 2027.

More than 37,000 responses were received, although it¡¯s unclear how far they represent public opinion more broadly, given that multiple responses were allowed.?

While Japan¡¯s national debt has mounted to more than twice the size of its economy, any changes are likely to be less dramatic than those pushed through by Elon Musk as head of DOGE in the U.S..

Around 13% of responses complained about what they said were inefficient Cabinet Office programs, including gender equality and youth initiatives. Some called for significant cuts to gender-related spending, saying it lacked transparency, while others questioned subsidies for vulnerable women.?

Of the roughly 5% of responses focused on foreigners and diplomacy, some said visa programs for ¡°specified skilled workers¡± could weigh on domestic employment and wages. Others challenged support for foreign students and questioned the legal basis for allowing noncitizens to claim welfare benefits.?

Another 5% targeted green policy. Respondents said heavy spending on innovation had produced limited results, and argued solar subsidies benefit overseas manufacturers more than domestic industry.

The tone of some feedback mirrors developments in the U.S., where DOGE cost-cutting efforts slashed diversity, foreign aid and environmental programs, though Musk¡¯s team ultimately oversaw a rise in federal spending last year.?

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has cemented her support in part by appealing to conservatives. Growing concerns over immigration, overtourism and economic security contributed to her landslide victory in February¡¯s Lower House election.

Other responses to the survey called for simpler, more transparent systems. Proposals included streamlining child care support and tightening eligibility for free high school education.

Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama on Friday urged ministries to focus on eliminating waste as they prepare to submit budget requests.?

While Takaichi has promised a ¡°proactive and responsible¡± fiscal policy, parliament this week approved a record ?122 trillion ($766 billion) budget for the fiscal year that started this month.