Wed, 21 May 2025

Wed, 21 May 2025 How a joke about rice cost a Japan cabinet minister his job

Soaring rice prices are a powerful trigger in Japan, where shortages have caused political upsets before.

* Japanese farm minister Taku Eto resigned after making comments that he didn't need to buy rice because his supporters give him plenty as gifts, sparking outrage and a no-confidence motion.
* Japan is facing its first cost-of-living crisis in decades, with rice prices more than doubling in the last year due to high demand and low supply.
* The government's estimation of demand was too low, leading to a shortage and higher prices, according to agricultural economist Kunio Nishikawa.
* Rice farmers have been struggling for years, unable to make a profit due to low prices and high costs, but with the current prices, they may finally be able to earn enough money.
* The government has started importing rice from South Korea for the first time in 25 years and is considering expanding imports from the US as well.
* Shoppers are reluctant to buy non-Japanese rice, preferring homegrown varieties, which is dividing opinion among farmers on whether the industry should be protected or allowed to adjust.
* The government is under pressure to find a solution to the crisis before a national election this summer.
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