Will Japan’s New Farm Minister Lower Rice Prices?
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Synopsis
Amidst rising rice prices, a recent poll indicates that nearly 60% of Japanese citizens have optimistic expectations for a price drop following the appointment of Shinjiro Koizumi as the new farm minister. This article explores the public's sentiment and the political backdrop influencing these views.
Key Takeaways
- Shinjiro Koizumi appointed as new farm minister.
- Public sentiment shows hope for rice price decrease.
- Prices have doubled in the past year.
- Government aims for prices around 2,000 yen.
- Support for Prime Minister’s cabinet has increased.
Tokyo, May 25 (NationPress) A recent Kyodo News survey reveals that nearly 60 percent of the Japanese populace anticipates a drop in rice prices following the appointment of Shinjiro Koizumi as the new farm minister.
The transition follows the resignation of former minister Taku Eto, who faced backlash for stating he doesn't buy rice due to receiving ample support from his constituents. This comment incited public anger amid soaring rice prices, as highlighted by Xinhua news agency.
Despite government interventions aimed at stabilizing supply, rice prices have surged, doubling over the past year. Koizumi intends to cut prices to around 2,000 yen (approximately 14 U.S. dollars) by selling excess stockpiled rice directly to retailers.
The Kyodo poll also indicated a slight increase in support for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's Cabinet, now at 31.7 percent, although a notable 52.6 percent still express disapproval.
As the upper house election approaches, 28.6 percent of respondents plan to vote for the ruling party, while 14.3 percent support the Democratic Party for the People and 13.6 percent back the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party, according to the survey.
Since May 2025, Shinjiro Koizumi has held the title of Minister of Agriculture, having previously served as the Minister of the Environment from September 2019 to October 2021.
As a member of the House of Representatives for the Liberal Democratic Party, he is the second son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and the younger sibling of actor Kotaro Koizumi.
Following the election of the Abe Government in 2012, Koizumi was appointed as Vice-Minister for Reconstruction, focusing on the northeastern region affected by the March 2011 tsunami and subsequent nuclear disaster.
He notably opposed his father's calls for an immediate exit from nuclear energy.
In 2019, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe brought Koizumi into the Cabinet as Minister of the Environment, a position he maintained under Yoshihide Suga's leadership after Abe's tenure ended in September 2020.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the shifting sentiments in Japan regarding rice prices and the political landscape surrounding agricultural policies. The appointment of Shinjiro Koizumi has sparked hope among citizens, reflecting broader economic concerns and governmental accountability. Our commitment is to keep the public informed on these pivotal changes that impact daily life.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Japanese citizens believe rice prices will decline?
Nearly 60 percent of Japanese citizens believe rice prices will drop following the new farm minister's appointment.
Who is the new farm minister of Japan?
The new farm minister of Japan is Shinjiro Koizumi.
What price does Koizumi aim to reduce rice to?
Koizumi plans to lower rice prices to around 2,000 yen (approximately 14 U.S. dollars).
What was the public's reaction to Taku Eto's resignation?
Taku Eto's resignation was met with public outrage due to his insensitive remarks about not buying rice.
How has the public's support for the Prime Minister changed?
The public's support for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's Cabinet has increased to 31.7 percent, though 52.6 percent still disapprove.
