Rice prices soar amid ongoing shortage

In one year, the price of the kilo of rice has doubled, forcing the country to draw from its strategic reserves. Farmers and specialists accuse the government's policy, which has long sought to reduce rice production. ...

Rice prices soar amid ongoing shortage

The cost of putting a bowl of rice on the table in Japan continues to soar, despite the release of more than 200,000 tons from the national stockpile. Imported rice is playing an important role to meet demand as Japan looks for a long-term solution to the current shortage.

The consumer price index (2020 = 100, excluding fresh food) for Naha city in March rose 4.4% from the same month last year, making it the highest index in Japan at 112.8. The fact that the price of rice for 5 kilograms per bag exceeded 5,000 yen seems to be one reason. It's been about 3 months since the government decided to release rice reserves.