TOKYO, Aug 26 (News On Japan) –
Rice shortages have persevered throughout Japan, elevating issues about the way forward for the trade. Although the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries maintains that the stability between provide and demand is being preserved, doubts stay over whether or not enough stock is really obtainable.
A better take a look at Niigata, Japan’s main rice-producing area, reveals broader points dealing with the rice trade.
Foreign Demand Adds Pressure to Rice Shortages
Abnormal climate patterns have adversely affected crop yields. Last yr’s excessive warmth led to a decline within the high quality of rice, leading to lowered provide and better costs. Compounding the difficulty is the rising demand from international guests.
Mētele Announcer Hana Komatsuzaki stories, “Most seats are filled here, with many of the customers being from overseas.”
A French vacationer commented, “Rice balls here are cheaper than in France.”
Meanwhile, an American customer shared, “I found this place by searching for ‘the best rice balls in the area.’ I could eat this every day!”
With over 40 types of rice balls obtainable, it’s notable that almost half of the shoppers are foreigners.
Mētele Announcer Hana Komatsuzaki added, “Delicious! The rice is so fluffy it barely holds together.”
Eiji Kimoto, Managing Director of Togoshiya Shibuya Dogenzaka Store, remarked, “The cost of rice and seaweed, our two primary ingredients, has increased by about 1.2 times compared to last year. If procurement costs continue to rise, we may be forced to make tough decisions.”
Kimoto additionally talked about that the shop has already applied two value hikes, in December final yr and April this yr. Another improve could be unavoidable this autumn.
Rice Shortages Persist Despite Government Assurances
Despite the continuing shortages, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries insists that “while stock levels have decreased, the balance between supply and demand remains intact.” But is there sufficient stock to satisfy demand?
In Niigata, a area often called Japan’s high rice producer, the state of affairs is being intently monitored.
Koyoshi Ueno from JA Echigo Joetsu’s Sales Department stated, “Please, take a look inside the warehouse. As you can see, the rice stored here remains as inventory.”
The warehouse is stacked with rice from the 2023 harvest, which remains to be in storage. Although rumors of low stock ranges have unfold, JA Echigo Joetsu assures that the rice vital for steady provide has been secured.
Kenji Iwasaki, Executive Director at JA Echigo Joetsu, affirmed, “The amount we’re storing is typical for this time of year.”
He added, “Contrary to rumors, we haven’t seen a significant drop in stock levels this year. The Ministry’s information is accurate, and I encourage a calm and measured response.”
Concerns About New Rice Harvest and Labor Shortages
As the brand new rice harvest approaches, farmers are optimistic about this yr’s yield.
Rice farmer Takeo Takimoto, 74, commented, “This year’s crop looks promising, with good water supply and favorable weather conditions. I’m expecting a yield 1.2 times higher than last year.”
However, Takimoto additionally expressed issues about rising prices.
“Fertilizer and fuel prices are up, but rice prices haven’t changed much. The government needs to balance farm gate prices with what consumers can afford,” Takimoto stated.
JA Echigo Joetsu stories that advance funds to farmers for brand spanking new rice are up about 22% year-on-year, indicating a possible improve in rice costs.
Despite the constructive outlook, Takimoto worries about the way forward for the trade.
“I want to tell young people that farming is tough but rewarding, but I can’t say that when I can’t pay them a decent wage. The government needs to address these fundamental issues,” Takimoto concluded.
Source: ANN