Rice Farmers Exit Business at Record Pace as Prices Fall

Sep 09, 2026 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Closures and bankruptcies among Japanese rice farmers are running at a record pace in 2026, with 32 cases recorded from January through August as an aging workforce, rising costs and falling rice prices make it increasingly difficult for producers to remain in business.

According to Teikoku Databank, 32 rice farming businesses either closed voluntarily or went bankrupt during the first eight months of 2026.

The number of voluntary closures in 2026 could set a record for a fourth consecutive year, with many farmers giving up agriculture because of aging and higher operating costs.

Pressure on producers is also increasing as private-sector rice inventories have risen to their highest level on record, strengthening expectations that prices for the 2026 new rice crop will fall sharply.

Some farmers are saying that their businesses are no longer financially viable as prices decline while costs remain high.

Teikoku Databank said stabilizing the management of rice farms, which are responsible for maintaining a steady supply of Japan's staple food, has become a key challenge.

Source: FNN

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