In a significant policy shift, Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced plans to increase domestic rice production. This change follows government miscalculations that caused a rice shortage and a sharp surge in prices last year. The updated strategy aims to strengthen food security and stabilize the national rice market moving forward.
Japan has historically limited rice production by subsidizing farmers to grow other crops and avoid oversupply. These long-standing policies were designed to maintain stable prices and manage agricultural resources efficiently. However, Ishiba admitted that these measures relied on flawed assumptions about rice production volumes and overlooked rising domestic and international demand. “We had assumed that production volume was adequate, despite the lack of sufficient analysis,” Ishiba stated during a recent ministerial meeting on rice supply.
The new government approach focuses on expanding rice output through several strategies. Officials plan to repurpose abandoned farmland for rice cultivation and increase support for large-scale rice farming operations. They also intend to help farmers adopt modern technologies that improve productivity and lower production costs. Furthermore, the government aims to transfer rice paddies and knowledge to future generations to ensure long-term sustainability.
This policy shift also includes stronger efforts to promote rice exports. Japanese rice exports rose by 22.6 percent during the first half of 2025. That growth reflects rising global interest in Japanese cuisine, especially in regions where sushi and other rice-based dishes have become more popular. The government believes expanding exports will help address domestic surpluses while also strengthening the international competitiveness of Japan’s rice industry.
Nonetheless, the policy faces challenges. Some agricultural experts question whether increased production is feasible without stronger government support for farmers. There are also concerns about the risk of returning to oversupply if demand estimates fall short. The government remains committed to addressing these concerns by implementing comprehensive agricultural policies and maintaining close collaboration with stakeholders in the sector.
Ultimately, the success of this rice production policy depends on precise execution and smart market management. The government closely monitors the situation and plans to make adjustments as needed to secure a stable and sustainable rice supply for Japan.
