You read that right. According to the Global Post:
Concerned about rising rates of both in a graying nation, Japanese lawmakers last year set a maximum waistline size for anyone age 40 and older: 85 centimeters (33.5 inches) for men and 90 centimeters (35.4 inches) for women.
Though it seems draconian, this isn’t exactly that detrimental for the majority of Japanese- even clothiers like UNIQLO generally set the max waist size at around 90cm, meaning that 85cm isn’t entirely unrealistic. Additionally, given Japan’s history with sumo and related sports, there will very likely be exemptions available for those legitimately having reason for bigger waists.
