Marketplace All-in-One Japan faces a rice crisis as emergency supplies are released
Jun 10, 2025
Japan is facing a rice crisis driven by bad weather and shrinking farming households, causing prices to soar and even costing a government minister his position. The cultural significance of rice in Japan adds urgency to the situation as the government scrambles to ensure food security amid inflation. Meanwhile, a Danish drugmaker's closure of an antibiotic factory in Copenhagen highlights broader challenges in Europe's pharmaceutical sector, including rising costs and the need for stronger local supply chains.
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Rice Price Shock in Tokyo
- Tokyo supermarket owner shares how rice prices doubled and customers faced hardship.
- Shoppers line up for rice, shocked by sudden price surges in a staple food.
Regulation Backfired on Rice Supply
- Japan's strict rice production regulation to prevent oversupply backfired.
- This structural issue contributes to the current rice crisis amid economic struggles.
Support Needed for EU Drug Factories
- To keep drug manufacturing in Europe, invest in modern equipment and cover operational cost gaps.
- Policymakers should provide CAPEX and operational subsidies to sustain competitiveness.