What is Japan's projected rice demand for the next year?
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Synopsis
In a significant update from Japan's agriculture ministry, rice demand is projected to slightly increase to 7.11 million tonnes by June 2026. This comes alongside forecasts of a notable rise in rice production due to expanded planting efforts. Stay informed about the evolving rice market dynamics in Japan and the Philippines.
Key Takeaways
- Japan's rice demand is projected to rise to 7.11 million tonnes.
- Rice production is expected to increase to 7.45 million tonnes in 2025.
- Private sector rice inventory may reach 2.3 million tonnes.
- Demand factors include tourism and household consumption.
- The Philippines is reviewing its rice import policies.
Tokyo, Sep 20 (NationPress) The demand for rice in Japan is anticipated to experience a slight increase, reaching 7.11 million tonnes in the year ending June 2026, as reported by the country's agriculture ministry.
Moreover, the forecast for staple rice production in 2025 is set to soar to 7.45 million tonnes, driven by expanded planting efforts to address shortages, according to estimates from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
In addition, the private sector's rice inventory is expected to approach 2.3 million tonnes by the end of June next year, a notably high figure that may rival the record stockpile established in 2015, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The ministry's food council subgroup, which traditionally bases staple rice demand projections on declining population and rising bread consumption, has now considered the increasing demand from foreign tourists and households.
In related news, the Philippines is contemplating extending its rice import suspension by 15 to 30 days as farmgate prices of palay, or unhusked rice, improve, stated Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel on Friday.
Earlier, Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos imposed a 60-day ban from September to October to safeguard local farmers during the peak harvest season.
Laurel indicated that the Department of Agriculture will advise Marcos by the end of September on whether to prolong the moratorium, stating, "Pending data validation, I am now inclined to recommend that he extend the ban for at least 15 to 30 days."
Preliminary data shows that wet palay prices rose from as low as 8-10 pesos (0.14-0.17 US dollars) per kilo before the ban to 17 pesos (0.29 dollars) in some parts of Mindanao, and 13-14 pesos (0.22-0.24 dollars) in major rice-producing provinces.
The cost of producing a kilo of palay is estimated at 12-14 pesos (0.21-0.24 dollars), according to Laurel.
Point of View
It is essential to understand that Japan's shifting rice demand reflects broader trends in consumption and production. The anticipated increase in both demand and production highlights the resilience of Japan's agricultural sector amidst challenges. Our coverage aims to keep the public informed and engaged with developments that affect national food security.
NationPress
10/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the estimated rice demand in Japan for the next year?
Japan's rice demand is estimated to be 7.11 million tonnes for the year ending June 2026.
How much is rice production expected to increase in 2025?
Rice production in 2025 is expected to rise to 7.45 million tonnes.
What factors are influencing rice demand in Japan?
The increase in rice demand is influenced by declining population, rising bread consumption, and growing demand from foreign tourists and households.
What is the current status of rice inventory in Japan?
Private sector rice inventory in Japan is projected to reach nearly 2.3 million tonnes by the end of June next year.
What measures is the Philippines taking regarding rice imports?
The Philippines is considering extending its rice import suspension by 15 to 30 days to protect local farmers.
