経済｜経済対策のおこめ券、値下げの可能性 / Economy | Possibility of Price Reductions for Rice Coupons in Economic Measures

Summary

JA Zen-Noh has announced that it will not be making a profit from the new issuance of “rice vouchers” as part of the government’s economic measures.

Currently, the rice vouchers are sold for 500 yen and can be exchanged for rice worth 440 yen, with 60 yen allocated for printing and other expenses. However, some local governments have raised concerns about the high expense ratio of 12%, suggesting the possibility of a price reduction. JA Zen-Noh has indicated that the price may be lowered to around 480 yen and plans to issue temporary rice vouchers in mid-January.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Log: It seems that a price reduction for rice vouchers is being considered. The expense rate is deemed too high and is raising concerns.
Chako: Really?! It’s a problem if rice vouchers, which help everyone, are too expensive!
Log: That’s true. Right now, you can exchange 500 yen for 440 yen worth of rice, but considering the expenses, it might be possible to make it cheaper.
Navi: An expense rate of 12% is indeed considered high. If a price reduction happens, it will be easier for more people to use them.
Chako: Yeah, I hope it drops to the 480 yen range! That would really help everyone!

Admin’s Note

I think the potential price reduction of rice vouchers by JA Zen-Noh is a very noteworthy point. To fulfill its role as an economic measure, it’s important to set the price at a level that many people can actually afford. In particular, if the costs remain high, there is a risk that fewer users will take advantage of the vouchers. As Chako mentioned, I hope they will lower the price to the 480 yen range so that everyone can benefit. I believe such initiatives can contribute to revitalizing the local economy.