News On Japan

Farmers Voice Concerns Over New Agricultural Law

TOKYO, Jan 24 (News On Japan) - Japan is facing significant challenges in its food supply chain as new laws and rising prices create widespread concern among farmers and consumers. The recently introduced Food Supply Crisis Management Law, set to take effect on April 1, will prohibit farmers from leasing unused farmland, with severe penalties for violations.

This change has sparked frustration among those who have relied on such leases to maintain self-sufficiency. Farmers and viewers alike expressed alarm over the implications of this law, which they feel undermines food security efforts and makes farming even more challenging.

Viewers have shared numerous accounts of the growing difficulties in Japan's agricultural sector. One notable example involves rice farmers being severely underpaid, with some selling 10 kg of rice for as little as 2,200 yen, far below sustainable levels. A widely circulated video highlighting this issue has drawn public attention to the plight of farmers, who face rising production costs and insufficient returns. Many farmers are reportedly considering leaving the industry altogether, further exacerbating the food supply issue.

Consumers across the country are feeling the impact of soaring vegetable prices. Reports indicate significant regional disparities, with prices for staples like cabbage and napa cabbage reaching as high as 1,000 yen each in Hyogo Prefecture, while in Kyoto, similar vegetables are sold for as little as 198 yen. Such differences highlight the uneven distribution of food resources and the strain on certain regions. Compounding these issues, fuel price hikes are making it more difficult for consumers to access affordable food options, especially in rural areas.

In addition to price concerns, there is growing skepticism about the government’s food supply management policies. Critics argue that the policies prioritize promoting imports over supporting domestic agriculture, citing evidence of increased rice exports. Government documents reveal a goal to generate 120 billion yen in rice export revenue this year, which has fueled speculation that domestic food supplies are being sacrificed to meet export targets. Such strategies have left many questioning the government’s commitment to ensuring the stability of Japan's food system.

In response to these challenges, some consumers have adopted creative coping strategies to manage rising food costs. These include traveling to rural farmers' markets for better prices, preserving vegetables through drying or pickling, and storing root vegetables in soil to extend their freshness. However, these efforts are limited by logistical barriers, such as high transportation costs, which make it difficult for everyone to access such solutions. Many viewers expressed frustration over the lack of support for farmers and called for greater transparency and accountability in government policies.

Overall, the combined effects of new regulations, rising production costs, and surging consumer prices are creating a precarious situation for Japan’s food supply. Farmers are struggling to stay afloat, and consumers are grappling with higher prices and fewer affordable options. The disparity in food prices between regions, coupled with controversial government policies, has further intensified public concerns about the future of Japan's agriculture and food security. Viewer contributions have provided valuable insights into these challenges, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive solutions that prioritize the well-being of both farmers and consumers.

Source: 備えようch

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Japan's new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the country holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

The Japanese government has released an updated damage forecast for a potential Nankai Trough megaquake, estimating that up to 298,000 people could die in the worst-case scenario. This projection reflects a slight reduction from the previous estimate of 332,000 deaths made 13 years ago.

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Business NEWS

The Japanese government approved a cabinet ordinance on April 1st to introduce a new pre-screening system for foreign companies investing in Japan. The revised regulation will take effect on May 19th.

The Bank of Japan's March Tankan survey, a key quarterly economic report, showed that business sentiment among large manufacturers has deteriorated for the first time in four quarters.

Tokyo has made it mandatory to install solar panels on newly built houses starting April 1st, as part of its broader effort to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

The new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the Kansai region holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

Sukiya, one of Japan's leading beef bowl restaurant chains, announced it will temporarily close nearly all of its stores after an insect was found in a food item served at one of its outlets.

Fuji Television announced a sweeping overhaul of its management structure on March 27th, including the retirement of longtime executive Hisashi Hieda, who served on the board for 41 years.

The Trump administration announced on March 26th that it will impose an additional 25% tariff on imported automobiles and key auto parts. According to the proclamation signed by President Trump, the tariffs are set to take effect on April 3rd and will apply to all imported vehicles, including those from Japan.

Rapidus, a company aiming to domestically produce next-generation semiconductors, plans to begin operating its prototype line for advanced chips in April. The company is accelerating development of 2-nanometer-class semiconductors, expected to be used in artificial intelligence (AI) applications.