the growth forecastt was a adop at a cabinet meeting. government officials say the job market and household income will improve, leading to a moderate rise in personal consumption. they say corporate earnings will also improve based on the assumption that the yen will continue to weaken. and they forecast that economic measures included in the second supplelementary budget f for fi 2016 will boost japan's economy. the officials project gdp growth around 1.3% for the current fiscal year ending in march. >>> and here's a look at some of the other business stories we're following. >>> japan's transport ministry has decided to lower the initial fare for taxisis operating in central tokyo. it's currently about $6 for up to two kilometers. the new fare will be about $3.50 for up to one kilometer. it will take effect on january 30th, 2017. taxi companies hope the new system will appeal to older passengers, foreign tourists, and others who only want to travel short distances. >>> sales at japan's department stores fell in november for the ninth