Key Facts
• The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries announced data on August 1.
• Average rice price for July 21–27 was ¥3,467 per 5 kg, up ¥35 from the previous week.
• This marks the first price increase in 10 weeks.
• A separate survey of supermarkets showed a ¥94 increase, with prices reaching ¥3,851.
• Minister Koizumi noted the situation might be at a “turning point” and will monitor trends.
Summary
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reported a rise in rice prices for the first time in 10 weeks. For the week of July 21–27, the average price of 5 kg of rice was ¥3,467, an increase of ¥35 from the previous week. A separate survey focusing on supermarkets showed a larger increase of ¥94, with prices reaching ¥3,851. Minister Koizumi suggested the market might be at a “turning point” and emphasized the importance of monitoring future developments.
