Japan Mulls Review of Rice Stockpiling Level

Tokyo, Oct. 20 (Jiji Press)–Japan’s agriculture ministry is considering a review of the appropriate level for the government’s rice stockpiling, informed sources said Monday. This is because demand for the staple food in the country has declined by 20 pct since 2001, when the current stockpiling level, set at about 1 million tons, was determined, according to the sources. The ministry plans to discuss potential reductions in stockpiles and to expedite rice releases during emergencies by subsidizing storage fees for private companies. The government stockpile is designed to ensure the domestic rice supply during a once-in-a-decade poor harvest or two consecutive years of lower yields. As part of a major review of paddy field policy scheduled for fiscal 2027, the stockpiling system is expected to be adjusted based on supply and demand, with specific volumes to be determined later. The ministry will also discuss a system for private-sector rice stockpiling, acknowledging delays in bidding and distribution when the government released stockpiled rice amid rising prices. Part of the rice will be stored with distributors and companies closer to consumers to improve emergency response. In August, the ministry examined soaring rice prices and outlined future policy directions at a meeting of related ministers, indicating plans to boost production partly by utilizing public and private reserves. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]