Japan’s farm minister, Taku Eto, stepped down on Wednesday following public outcry over his comments about receiving free rice from supporters. The nation is grappling with soaring rice prices, largely due to the impact of inclement weather and the protection of local farmers’ interests.
The current policy has crimped supplies, contributing to a significant increase in rice prices. Locals are feeling the pinch as rocketing prices hit all-time highs. According to recent data, a 5-kilogram bag of rice rose 54 yen week-on-week to 4,268 yen ($29.63).
Japan’s agriculture ministry has attempted to curb rising prices by releasing government stockpiles, but the move has yielded little effect. The country’s economy is heavily reliant on imports, with around 60% of its food supply coming from abroad.
Experts point to several factors contributing to the shortage, including poor harvests last year and an aging population that is leading to a decline in farmers. “Japanese like Japanese rice,” said Sayuri Shirai, a professor of economics. “They don’t really like foreign rice.”
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/21/japan-minister-resigns-after-backlash-on-rice-remarks.html