Taku Eto, Japan's Agriculture Minister, has resigned following a public reaction over a remark he made about receiving free rice from supporters at a time when the country is facing a severe cost-of-living problem, reports BBC.
Eto's effort at humour, claiming he never needs to buy rice, backfired when Japan's rice prices skyrocketed. His remarks at a local political fundraiser drew outrage and prompted opposing parties to propose a no-confidence vote, causing his resignation.
The controversy puts pressure on Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's already vulnerable administration. Inflation and economic distress have weakened support for the cabinet.
Rice prices in Japan have more than doubled in the last year, making a household essential unaffordable for many. Factors include poor government demand predictions, low crop yields due to bad weather, and increased consumption following the pandemic and from tourism.
Agricultural economist Kunio Nishikawa claims the ministry underestimated rice demand in 2023 and 2024. While they expected a demand of 6.8 million tonnes, actual consumption was 7.05 million tonnes. Production lags at 6.61 million tonnes.
The situation caused public frustration, with stores limiting rice purchases and stocks being drawn down for the first time apart from emergencies.
Rice growing in Japan has long been unprofitable, with many farmers relying on government subsidies or diversifying their crops. However, recent price increases, which have pushed the market worth of 60kg of rice to between 40,000 and 50,000 yen, have provided some comfort.
Veteran farmer Kosuke Kasahara says it used to cost roughly 18,500 yen to produce that amount, but government incentives discouraged overproduction. As prices rise, many younger farmers see an opportunity, while older farmers remain in years of loss.
However, the government's decision to unleash emergency reserves has left some people, including farmer Shinya Tabuchi, feeling misled. "They always said they wouldn't intervene just to control prices," he told the reporter.
The rise in costs has caused controversy in the farming community. While some argue for less government intervention and more market-driven reforms, others worry that this might ruin rural areas.
Kasahara advocates for a steady minimum purchase price to maintain local agriculture, whereas Tabuchi believes that failed farms should be closed to provide a sustainable future for younger farmers.
With elections coming up this summer, politicians are treading cautiously. Balancing the interests of farmers and customers, many of whom are elderly and politically active, is an increasing concern.
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