宜得利被指向中国卖米：它折射出日本的深层焦虑

Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Nitori's rice exports to China has sparked significant public outrage in Japan, highlighting deeper societal issues related to the ongoing rice crisis and rising prices [1][2][5]. Group 1: Nitori's Export Controversy - A viral video on social media accused Nitori of exporting high-quality rice from Hokkaido to China while Japan faces a domestic rice shortage and rising prices [1][2]. - Nitori clarified that it had exported rice in January 2022 but has not done so since, attempting to quell public anger [4]. - The public's reaction reflects a broader sentiment of frustration over rising living costs and the cultural significance of rice in Japan [5]. Group 2: Current Rice Crisis in Japan - Japan has been experiencing a severe rice shortage since 2024, with prices soaring; the core consumer price index rose by 2.7% in July 2024, with rice prices increasing by 18%, the highest in 20 years [6]. - The average price of rice in supermarkets reached 4,233 yen for 5 kg by May 2025, nearly doubling from the previous year [6]. - The crisis has been compared to the 1993 rice crisis, driven by factors such as abnormal weather, changes in planting structure, and increased tourist demand [7]. Group 3: Structural Issues in Japanese Agriculture - The root causes of the rice crisis include structural problems in Japanese agriculture, such as fragmented farming practices and an aging farmer population, with 60% of agricultural workers over 65 years old [8][11]. - Farmers' average annual income was reported at only 1 million yen, equating to a mere 10 yen per hour, highlighting the economic struggles within the sector [8]. - Agricultural policies, including high tariffs and production reduction strategies, have exacerbated the situation, leading to decreased production capacity and increased market volatility [11][14]. Group 4: Societal and Cultural Implications - The rice crisis has intensified public anxiety about food security, with rice symbolizing self-sufficiency and national identity in Japan [15][20]. - The backlash against Nitori reflects a broader societal fear regarding food exports during a domestic shortage, with accusations of "selling out" to foreign markets [16][20]. - The incident underscores the need for a more rational discourse on agricultural issues rather than scapegoating individual companies [20].