Key Facts
• Prime Minister Ishiba announced a new ministerial meeting on rice supply stability.
• The meeting will include the Chief Cabinet Secretary and the Minister of Agriculture.
• Ishiba aims to deepen discussions and finalize measures for stable rice supply.
• Opposition questioned Agriculture Minister Koizumi on the causes of rice price surges.
• Koizumi cited reduced distribution through JA Zen-Noh and admitted government misjudgment.
• Government stockpiled rice may be repurchased if unsold due to price differences.
• Ishiba opposed full implementation of direct payment to rice producers, citing consumer costs.
• Selective married surname adoption was also debated, with Ishiba urging cautious decision-making.
Summary
Prime Minister Ishiba announced plans to establish a ministerial meeting to address the rising price of rice and ensure stable supply. The meeting, chaired by Ishiba, will include key officials such as the Chief Cabinet Secretary and the Minister of Agriculture. Ishiba emphasized the need for thorough discussions to develop effective measures. Opposition parties questioned Agriculture Minister Koizumi, who attributed the price surge to reduced distribution through JA Zen-Noh and acknowledged government forecasting errors. Koizumi also indicated the possibility of repurchasing unsold government stockpiled rice. Ishiba rejected the opposition’s proposal for direct payments to rice producers, citing concerns over consumer affordability. Additionally, the debate extended to selective married surname adoption, with Ishiba advocating for a cautious approach. The discussions reflect the government’s efforts to balance producer support, consumer interests, and broader social issues.
