Rice Remarks Topple Japan's Agriculture Minister

Japanese Agriculture Minister Resigns Amidst Rice Price Crisis Japan's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Taku Eto, resigned recently following public backlash over comments he made about rice. In a statement that shocked many, Eto admitted that he had never purchased rice personally, explaining that he receives substantial donations from supporters. This revelation came at a time when Japan is facing historically high rice prices, with costs more than doubling compared to 2024 levels. The price surge is impacting families and restaurants across the nation, forcing many to seek alternative food sources. The government has been forced to release rice from its strategic reserves, a measure not taken in decades. "I understand my remarks caused significant concern," Eto stated in his resignation announcement. "I deeply regret the distress this has caused and take full responsibility for my actions." Prime Minister Kishida accepted Eto's resignation, appointing Shinjiro Koizumi, the son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, to the position. This appointment comes as Prime Minister Kishida's popularity is already low. The upcoming July elections might be significantly influenced by the rice price crisis and the government's response.