Key Facts
• June 10, 2025: Minister Shinjiro Koizumi announced release of 200,000 tons of reserve rice.
• Includes 100,000 tons of 2021 rice and 100,000 tons of 2020 rice.
• First release of 2020 rice; expected price: 1,700 yen per 5 kg.
• Average rice price (May 26–June 1, 2025): 4,223 yen per 5 kg, down for 2 weeks.
• Nagoya rice shop reports near sell-out; 2023 reserve rice priced at 3,480 yen per 5 kg.
• Consumer survey: 69% prefer branded rice, 19% choose reserve rice, 1% opt for imported rice.
• Branded rice prices rose by 1,000 yen per 5 kg over the past year.
• Reserve rice release may lower 2024 rice prices; shop owners monitor market trends.
Summary
Japan’s Minister of Agriculture, Shinjiro Koizumi, announced the release of 200,000 tons of reserve rice, including aged 2020 and 2021 stocks, to stabilize soaring rice prices. The move marks the first release of 2020 rice, priced at 1,700 yen per 5 kg. Recent weeks have seen a slight decline in average rice prices, though they remain double last year’s levels. In Nagoya, a rice specialty shop reported high demand for reserve rice, with 2023 stocks priced at 3,480 yen per 5 kg. A consumer survey revealed 69% prefer branded rice despite higher costs, while 19% opt for reserve rice. Experts suggest the release could lower 2024 rice prices, with shop owners closely monitoring market trends. The initiative aims to address price hikes and ensure affordability for consumers.
