Japan’s rice crisis: Why prices are soaring and what’s behind it скачать в хорошем качестве

Japan’s rice crisis: Why prices are soaring and what’s behind it

Japan’s staple food is suddenly too expensive for many households — and the reasons go far beyond simply supply and demand. In this episode of Japan Today Spotlight, we break down the sharp rise in the country’s rice prices, the government’s delayed response and why political pressure, protectionism and panic buying have made things worse. From empty supermarket shelves to a cabinet minister’s resignation, this rice crisis is hitting consumers hard — and it’s not over yet. We also look at: -- The powerful role of JA (Japan Agriculture) -- How tariffs and trade policy keep foreign rice out -- What the government is doing now (and why it might be too late) -- Why cheap rice isn’t showing up at your local konbini Can Japan protect its most essential crop — or is the system finally cracking? --------------------------------------------------- ⏱️ Chapters: 0:00 Topic overview 0:54 Rice is more than just food in Japan 2:14 What goes up hasn't been coming down 4:17 What the government is doing 5:08 How are retailers responding? 6:35 What about foreign brands? 9:32 Political risks 10:37 The future of rice in Japan 12:23 Outro --------------------------------------------------- 🔗 Related Coverage on Japan Today: 📌 Emergency reserves, high prices, rationing — how did Japan’s rice crisis get this far? https://japantoday.com/category/natio... 📌 Japan gov’t promises lower-priced stockpiled rice supply for rural areas https://japantoday.com/category/natio... 📌 Japan begins selling rice stockpiles via direct contracts https://japantoday.com/category/natio... 📌 Koizumi pledges immediate rice relief for consumers to prevent shift to foreign brands https://japantoday.com/category/natio... 📌 Cheaper stockpiled rice starts hitting store shelves in Japan https://japantoday.com/category/busin... 🗨️ Join the conversation! Japan’s rice system has been called outdated, overprotected — even rigged. But it’s also deeply tied to culture, politics and national pride. What do you think: Should Japan open up its rice market more, or keep protecting it at all costs? Let us know in the comments! 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an update on Japan’s biggest news stories. Follow Japan Today for more: 🌏 Website:https://japantoday.com 📸 Instagram: @japantodaynews 📘 Facebook: Japan Today 🐤 Twitter/X: @JapanToday