Japan Exports Record-High Rice Despite Domestic Shortage

According to Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the country’s rice exports from January to July this year reached 24,469 tons, a 23% increase compared to the same period last year. This also marks the highest level during this period since 2014, when the ministry began collecting data.

The ministry attributes this surge in exports to strong import demands from Japanese restaurants in other Asian and American countries, with Hong Kong being the largest export destination, followed by the US and Singapore.

In contrast to this positive export trend, rice shortages continue to plague supermarkets nationwide, despite price hikes of up to 30%.

Addressing this issue at a press conference following a cabinet meeting on September 3, the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Sakamoto Tetsushi, assured that the government is taking appropriate measures to stabilize the market and meet consumer demands.

By the end of September, more substantial rice distribution is expected, with approximately 40% of the annual shipment being transported from production areas. Additionally, early harvesting in some regions will contribute to easing the shortage situation.

Regarding potential crop damages caused by the recent typhoon, especially the possibility of large-scale damage to rice yields, Mr. Sakamoto stated that the ministry is actively investigating and gathering information. However, no significant large-scale damage to rice crops has been reported thus far.

“As of now, we have not received any reports of large-scale damage to rice crops due to the typhoon. We also do not foresee any situation that would significantly impact our rice harvest for this year,” Mr. Sakamoto assured.