【环时深度】参院选举前，日本政府为何向农协“下猛药”？

Core Viewpoint - The rising rice prices in Japan have become a critical issue in the upcoming Senate elections, with the government facing criticism for its handling of the situation and the role of the agricultural cooperative (JA) being scrutinized [1][2][3]. Group 1: Rice Price Crisis - Japan has been experiencing a "rice shortage" since last summer, leading to skyrocketing rice prices and political turmoil [1][2]. - Although rice prices have decreased from their peak, they remain significantly higher than the same period last year, contributing to the declining approval ratings of Prime Minister Kishida's administration [2][3]. - The resignation of former Agriculture Minister Takumi Eto, due to his comments about never having bought rice, highlights the political ramifications of the rice price crisis [2]. Group 2: Role of Agricultural Cooperatives - The Japanese agricultural cooperative (JA) has been criticized for its role in maintaining high rice prices through policies that limit rice production [3][9]. - The JA has historically been a powerful entity in Japan, with significant political influence and a close relationship with government officials, forming a "political-agricultural" triangle that hinders agricultural reform [10][11]. - The JA's financial power is substantial, with over 100 trillion yen in deposits and more than 10 million members, complicating efforts for reform [9][10]. Group 3: Government Response and Reforms - In response to the rice price crisis, the government has taken measures to bypass the JA, including direct purchases from farmers and selling reserve rice through free contracts [5][6]. - New Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has implemented policies aimed at increasing rice production, which the JA has historically opposed [5][6]. - The government's attempts to reform the JA have faced resistance, as the cooperative's influence remains strong, particularly in rural areas where the ruling party relies on JA support [13][14]. Group 4: Political Implications - The upcoming Senate elections are expected to focus on rice price management and agricultural policies, with the ruling party's performance potentially affected by its handling of the rice crisis [2][14]. - The intertwining of agricultural policies with political interests complicates the government's ability to implement effective reforms without alienating key support bases [13][14]. - The situation presents a significant challenge for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, as it navigates the complexities of agricultural policy and electoral support [14].