Key Facts
• June 11, Shimane Governor Tatsuya Maruyama held a regular press conference.
• Criticized the government’s “Hometown Resident Registration System” as “detached from reality.”
• The system aims to increase “related population” by registering ties to non-residential municipalities.
• Maruyama argued it lacks impact on natural or social population growth.
• Described the policy as “a fairy tale” and expressed sadness, not anger.
• Supported the government’s consideration of emergency rice imports.
• Highlighted the need to offer rice priced below 800 yen per kilogram.
• Warned that high tariffs on imported rice could harm Japan’s domestic rice industry.
Summary
Shimane Governor Tatsuya Maruyama criticized the Japanese government’s “Hometown Resident Registration System” during a press conference on June 11, describing it as unrealistic and disconnected from the challenges local regions face. The policy, aimed at increasing “related population” by fostering ties with non-residential municipalities, was dismissed by Maruyama as ineffective in addressing population growth issues. He expressed disappointment, calling the initiative “a fairy tale.” Conversely, Maruyama supported the government’s consideration of emergency rice imports, emphasizing the importance of offering affordable rice options to citizens. He warned that failing to lower prices below those of high-tariff imported rice, such as California rice, could jeopardize Japan’s domestic rice production. His remarks reflect a mix of skepticism toward certain government policies and support for pragmatic economic measures.
