TOKYO (AP) — A top IOC official has suggested that next year's postponed Tokyo Olympics could help “kick start" Japan's economy. International Olympic Committee member John Coates says “these games are a very positive opportunity for an economic stimulus.” Japan has been devastated like many countries by the coronavirus pandemic. But economists and Olympic researchers say the economic boost is negligible given the size of Japan's $5 trillion economy and the limited tourism and economic benefits that the Olympics offer. The Olympics are now set for July 23, 2021, and close on Aug. 8. The Paralympics follow on Aug. 24.

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