Japan Faces Rice Shortage as Private Imports Surge Amid Price Spike

Japan is facing a critical rice supply shortage, causing private-sector imports to surge significantly as prices more than doubled due to a harsh heatwave, an earthquake, and increased tourism demand. The government has intervened by releasing stockpiled rice at reduced prices and holding an early tender for tariff-free imports to help ease price pressures. After months of rising costs, rice prices in Japan have recently fallen below 4,000 yen for the first time since March, signaling some stabilization and relief for consumers. Meanwhile, in Nepal, efforts are underway to boost rice production and ensure food security amid climate challenges, with the government promoting climate-resilient technologies and increased productivity despite a slight decrease in the area planted. Both countries highlight the importance of rice as a staple crop tied to economic, social, and cultural factors and are implementing measures to address supply and price concerns. These developments underscore the global challenges in rice production and supply influenced by environmental factors and market dynamics.