Group 1: Weather Impact on Agriculture - Japan experienced unprecedented high temperatures and low rainfall this summer, with average temperatures in June and July reaching historical highs, and over 4,565 locations recording temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius in July alone [1] - The northeastern and Hokuriku regions, major rice-producing areas, saw rainfall drop to only 13% and 8% of average levels, raising significant concerns about rice production [1][2] - Water reservoirs in these regions are critically low, with some at less than 10% capacity, leading to urgent calls for water conservation [2] Group 2: Rice Prices and Supply Concerns - The average price of rice in Japan increased to 3,625 yen for 5 kilograms as of July 27, marking the first rise in 10 weeks, attributed to a decrease in government reserve grain supply [1][3] - The estimated rice production for 2023 is projected to be 661,000 tons, 80,000 tons less than initially expected, leading to potential supply shortages and price hikes [3] - The government plans to encourage farmers to increase rice planting despite the low production levels, aiming to gain support from the agricultural sector and address consumer concerns over rising living costs [3] Group 3: Broader Agricultural Price Increases - The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries forecasts that wholesale prices for 15 major vegetables in Tokyo will rise by 10% to 30% compared to the average of the past five years due to the impact of high temperatures and reduced rainfall [4] - Pork prices remain high, matching last year's record levels, with supply issues stemming from decreased breeding rates and weight gain due to heat stress [4][5] - Experts warn that if high temperatures persist, meat prices may continue to rise in the fall, compounded by increasing feed and fuel costs for livestock producers [5]
高温导致减产 日本米荒可能重现
Bei Jing Shang Bao·2025-08-07 15:27