In an unprecedented move, the Japanese government will release up to 210,000 tonnes of stockpiled rice into the market to combat soaring prices caused by record summer heat and distribution issues. The decision aims to stabilize prices that have surged over 50% in recent months.
Agriculture Minister Taku Eto announced the plan on Friday, citing the significant impact of rising prices on people’s lives. The government typically avoids intervening in the market but has made an exception this time due to the sharp price hikes.
The latest average retail price of a 5kg bag of rice stands at ¥3,688 ($24), up from ¥2,023 last year. Japan’s government has previously drawn on its rice reserves after natural disasters or crop failures but never before to address distribution issues.
The stockpiled rice will be sold to agricultural cooperatives and wholesalers in April, with the goal of reducing prices and preventing further price rises. The government aims to buy back a similar quantity of rice from distributors within a year to maintain stability.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/14/japan-releases-200000-tonnes-of-emergency-rice-stockpile-as-prices-soar