日本米价连续6个月创新高，超市限购飞去邻国“背米”？21记者实地调查

Core Viewpoint - Despite the Japanese government's release of over 300,000 tons of reserve rice, rice prices continue to rise, with the average retail price for a 5-kilogram bag reaching 4,220 yen, more than double the price from the previous year [1][2]. Group 1: Price Trends - The average retail price of 5-kilogram rice has reached 4,220 yen (approximately 214.12 RMB), marking a record high and an increase of 92.1% year-on-year [2][11]. - The price of 2-kilogram rice ranges from 2,080 to 2,480 yen, equivalent to approximately 26.94 to 32.11 RMB per kilogram, indicating a continuous upward trend in rice prices [3]. Group 2: Supply Issues - Many supermarkets have implemented purchase limits due to rice shortages, with some stores displaying nearly empty rice shelves [1][2]. - The government has released 210,000 tons of reserve rice since March, but the circulation of this rice has been minimal, with only 426 tons reaching retailers by the end of March [7]. Group 3: Government Response - The Japanese government plans to release an additional 100,000 tons of reserve rice and will continue monthly releases until July, but the effectiveness of these measures remains in question [6][9]. - Criticism has arisen regarding the timing and scale of the reserve rice releases, with many consumers feeling that the government's actions have been too slow [6][8]. Group 4: Consumer Behavior - Increasingly, Japanese consumers are turning to imports from countries like South Korea, India, and Thailand, with reports of individuals bringing back rice during travels [4][5]. - The high rice prices are affecting consumer spending habits, leading to a more cautious approach to expenditures [11]. Group 5: Economic Impact - The rise in rice prices is contributing to overall inflation, with the core consumer price index rising by 3.2% in March, driven largely by food prices [11][12]. - Analysts suggest that the persistent inflation and rising food costs may complicate the Bank of Japan's monetary policy, potentially limiting future interest rate hikes [12].