Rice Crisis: Minister Resigns Amid Soaring Prices in Japan

Japan's Agriculture Minister, Taku Eto, stepped down on Wednesday following backlash over comments that he "never had to buy rice," stirring controversy amidst soaring prices of the staple food. The comment, made during a seminar, was perceived as out of touch with the economic realities facing consumers.

Shinjiro Koizumi, a former Environment Minister, has been appointed to replace Eto. He has pledged to prioritize rice supply stabilization and price control. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba emphasized strengthening food security, proposing reforms to improve rice production and potential exports, although critics demand a focus on immediate price relief.

Japan has faced rice shortages, attributed to poor harvests and distribution complexities, with the government releasing rice from emergency stockpiles. Despite efforts, officials and experts struggle to trace the root causes of the supply issue, which remains a significant challenge for the government.

(With inputs from agencies.)