【环球财经】为何日本政府平抑米价努力难见成效

Core Viewpoint - Japan's rice prices have reached record highs, with the average price for a 5-kilogram bag at 4,285 yen, more than double from the previous year, causing significant distress among consumers [1] Supply and Demand Dynamics - The increase in rice prices is attributed to a combination of declining supply capabilities and changes in demand structure, leading to a long-term rice shortage in Japan [1] - Factors affecting supply include government policies aimed at reducing rice production, climate change causing natural disasters, and an aging population leading to a labor shortage in agriculture [1][4] - The recent heatwave in 2023 has decreased rice quality, prompting wholesalers to increase procurement, while previous natural disasters led to panic buying, further driving up demand [1] Government Response - The Japanese government has attempted to stabilize rice prices by releasing reserve rice into the market, but experts criticize the delayed response and ineffective measures [1][2] - As of May 11, only about 13% of the 210,000 tons of reserve rice auctioned in March reached retail outlets, indicating a significant bottleneck in distribution [2] - The new Minister of Agriculture has shifted the strategy from auctioning reserve rice to direct contracts with retailers, which has led to a quick sellout of the newly released rice [2] Market Outlook - Experts express skepticism about the potential for rice prices to decrease significantly, emphasizing that any temporary measures will not lead to lasting stability [3] - Agricultural cooperatives are planning to raise the purchase price for rice significantly, indicating that consumers may face even higher prices in the future [3] - A sustainable agricultural system that does not overly rely on production controls and policy interventions is deemed necessary for future rice supply stability [4]