経済｜新米価格の高騰から下落へ / Economy | Rice Prices Drop After Surge

Summary

The price of new rice for the 2026 harvest is showing signs of decline, marking a reversal from the price surges of the past two years.

In Kagoshima and Miyazaki, advance payments are being offered at levels 20% to 45% lower than the previous year, causing concern among producers. This drop is attributed to a loosening supply and demand, and there are calls for the government to buy back the rice it has released from its reserves. Farmers are struggling with the sale of new rice due to low prices.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Chako: Hey Log, I heard that the price of this year’s new rice might drop!
Log: Yeah, it seems like the prices being offered in Kagoshima and Miyazaki are significantly lower than last year.
Chako: But it sounds tough for the farmers! They said they can’t sell because of the low prices.
Log: That’s true. With the supply and demand easing up, the farmers are really worried.
Navi: It’s also important that the JA Fukui Central Union has requested the government to buy back stockpiled rice in response to this situation.
Chako: I see, so those kinds of measures are necessary!

Admin’s Note

The news of falling prices for new rice is welcome for consumers, but it reminds us of the harsh reality faced by farmers. As measures are needed to maintain the balance of supply and demand, attention is being drawn to the actions of agricultural cooperatives (JA) and the government’s responses. In particular, I’m interested in how the request to buy back stored rice will progress, and I hope to keep an eye on future developments. I wish for an environment where farmers can sell their new rice with peace of mind.