Japan Rice Prices to Get Stable as Shinjirō Koizumi Takes Big Step

29 May 2025

Japan Agriculture Minister, Shinjirō Koizumi takes a big step to curb increasing Japan rice prices amid rising tensions. The Japanese government's announcement to sell 300,000 metric tons of rice directly to major retailers met with a swift response. Following the announcement by govt. to sell rice directly to major retailers approx. 70 major retailors made requests to buy reserve rice from the farm ministry, bringing the total to over 200,000 tons.

The rice will be offered at a weighted average price of 10,700 yen ($75) per 60 kilograms that does not includes tax, this move is anticipated to halve the price of rice for consumers, which is currently more than ¥4,000 per 5 kilograms.

Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Increasing Japan Rice Prices

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has instructed Koizumi to move swiftly with measures to ensure a stable supply of rice for everyone and ensure a stable and affordable rice price in Japan​. Notably, this move will help government in the upcoming elections.

Koizumi expressed his gratitude to the retailers for their quick response over government rice stockpile. He further stressed on the next phase of rice sales which is expected to start from Friday.