Japan’s newly appointed Agriculture Minister Koizumi Shinjiro has pledged swift action to combat skyrocketing rice prices, declaring his commitment to ensuring supply stability as he officially took over the post on Thursday from outgoing minister Eto Taku.
Speaking to reporters upon arriving at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Koizumi outlined his plan to release government rice stockpiles without limitation, signaling an aggressive approach to rein in price inflation and restore market balance.
“If necessary, we will supply reserve rice without limit,” Koizumi said. “I want to act quickly and make every effort to deliver results as soon as possible.”
Leadership Transition Amid Market Tensions
Koizumi’s appointment comes at a delicate time, with rice prices surging nationwide and public concern mounting over affordability and food security. His predecessor, Eto Taku, resigned earlier this week after making controversial remarks about rice, sparking criticism and political backlash.
The handover was made official Thursday afternoon, when Eto and Koizumi met privately in the minister’s office. The exchange was symbolic and brief — a handshake, a handover of documents, and Eto’s departing words: “I’ll leave it in your hands.” Koizumi replied, “Got it.”
Policy Shift: Auctions Paused, Direct Contracts Planned
In a significant departure from Eto’s approach, Koizumi announced that the ministry would halt a planned fourth auction of government stockpiled rice, which was originally scheduled for next week. Instead, he revealed plans to switch to direct contracting with individual buyers, a move intended to ensure more flexible and immediate supply allocation.
“We must stabilize prices with practical, targeted action,” Koizumi told reporters on Wednesday, a day before assuming office.
This shift aims to bypass delays and pricing uncertainties often associated with bulk auctions, and may help smaller rice retailers and local distributors gain better access to government rice reserves.
📈 The Rice Price Challenge
Japan’s rice market has seen prices rise sharply in recent months due to unseasonable weather, declining domestic production, and increased demand. While the exact causes remain under review, the Ministry of Agriculture is under growing pressure to both protect consumer purchasing power and support domestic farmers.
Koizumi’s challenge is twofold: prevent further price hikes through market intervention, and do so without disrupting producer confidence or long-term agricultural policy goals.
“It’s not just about managing prices — it’s about restoring trust in our food system,” said one senior ministry official.
What to Watch
- Impact of halted rice auctions on short-term market prices
- Effectiveness of direct sales contracts to stabilize distribution
- Koizumi’s broader strategy on agricultural reforms and subsidies
- Public and political response to his first weeks in office
As Japan grapples with a critical food staple under pressure, Koizumi’s tenure begins with high expectations. Whether he can successfully navigate the political and economic complexities of the rice market remains to be seen — but his message is clear: immediate action, unlimited supply, and results without delay.
