Key Facts
• October 22, 2025: Agriculture Minister Norikazu Suzuki held his inaugural press conference.
• Suzuki stressed the principle of ‘demand-based production’ for rice policy.
• Previous administrations promoted increased rice production, raising concerns of oversupply.
• Current rice prices remain high but could drop with rapid production increases.
• Suzuki aims to create a stable environment for rice farmers to continue production.
• On rice export promotion, Suzuki stated, ‘Demand will grow in the medium to long term.’
• Suzuki denied government intervention in rice prices, focusing on supply shortage measures.
• He pledged to avoid past mistakes in managing reserve rice releases.
• Suzuki, a former agriculture ministry official, has served five terms in the House of Representatives.
• He previously held roles as Vice Minister of Agriculture and Youth Bureau Chief in the ruling party.
Summary
Norikazu Suzuki, Japan’s new Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, emphasized a ‘demand-based production’ approach to rice policy during his inaugural press conference on October 22, 2025. This marks a shift from previous administrations that promoted increased rice production, which raised concerns about potential oversupply and price drops. Suzuki highlighted the importance of creating a stable environment for farmers and expressed optimism about growing global demand for Japanese rice in the medium to long term. He rejected government intervention in rice pricing, focusing instead on addressing supply shortages and improving reserve rice management. With extensive experience in agriculture policy, Suzuki aims to balance domestic production with market demand while promoting exports.
