Key Facts
• July 12, 2025: Farmers protested in Kyoto, highlighting agricultural challenges.
• Rice prices have dropped for seven consecutive weeks, per Ministry of Agriculture.
• Farmers demand income compensation to stabilize earnings and support small-scale farms.
• Government survey: Only the ruling party denies the farming crisis.
• Farmers criticize policies favoring large-scale agriculture over small-scale operations.
• $1,200 spent by a farmer to replace outdated equipment without government aid.
• Nationwide protests, including a tractor march, emphasize rural decline and land abandonment.
• Farmers urge policies to attract younger generations to agriculture.
• Opposition parties support income compensation; ruling party opposes it.
• Experts stress the need for policies ensuring food security and rural revitalization.
Summary
Amid rising rice prices and declining farmer incomes, Japanese rice farmers are advocating for sustainable agricultural policies. Protests, including the “Reiwa Farmers’ Revolt,” highlight the struggles of small-scale farmers, who face challenges such as aging equipment, lack of government support, and declining rice prices. Farmers demand income compensation to stabilize earnings and prevent rural decline. Opposition parties support these measures, while the ruling party remains resistant. Experts emphasize the importance of policies that ensure food security, support small-scale farmers, and attract younger generations to agriculture. The upcoming House of Councillors election is seen as a critical moment to address these issues and secure the future of Japan’s agriculture.
