“米荒”引发“米慌” 日本投放储备米平抑米价为何难见成效？

Core Viewpoint - Japan's rice prices have doubled compared to the same period last year due to extreme weather conditions affecting rice harvests, prompting the government to release reserve rice to stabilize prices [1][2]. Group 1: Government Actions - The Japanese government initiated a new round of reserve rice release on June 11, totaling 120,000 tons, all produced in 2021 [1]. - The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has been releasing reserve rice since March, with four previous rounds already conducted [2]. - The retail price for the newly released 2021 reserve rice is expected to be around 1,800 yen (approximately 89 RMB) for 5 kg, significantly lower than the market price [1]. Group 2: Market Reactions - There has been a significant public response, with long queues forming in various regions as consumers rush to purchase rice, leading to what has been termed a "rice scramble" [1]. - The media has referred to the released rice as "old rice," indicating that the quality may not meet current consumer expectations [1][2]. Group 3: Expert Analysis - Experts suggest that the government's delayed response and the inadequacy of the reserve rice release mechanism are key reasons for the ongoing high rice prices [3][4]. - The long-term "reduction policy" has led to decreased arable land and limited rice production, compounded by climate change and an aging population affecting agricultural labor [3]. - The monopolistic behavior of agricultural cooperatives, which have acquired over 90% of the reserve rice, has resulted in slow distribution to the retail market, undermining the intended price stabilization effect [4]. Group 4: Future Measures - In response to the soaring rice prices, Japan plans to expedite the bidding process for rice imports, moving it from September to June 27 [5].