Japan’s newly enacted Food Supply Emergency Measures Law took effect on Tuesday, granting the government the authority to direct farmers to develop plans to increase the production of key food items, such as rice, if domestic supplies dwindle and prices soar.
The legislation, introduced to combat food shortages, comes as the production of vital crops has become increasingly unstable due to climate change and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has disrupted agricultural production in one of Europe’s largest food-producing regions.
Government data reveals a significant spike in food prices, with rice prices surging by 80.9% in February compared to the same month the previous year, marking the steepest increase since records began in 1971. The law, which was passed last June, aims to stabilize the country’s food supply.
Under the new law, 12 essential food items, including rice, meat, soybeans, wheat, sugar, eggs, and dairy products, are designated as critical. To support production, the government will also focus on securing a stable supply of fertilizers and pesticides.
If the supply of any of these key foods falls by 20% or more below the average and prices escalate, the government has the power to mandate that farmers and food-related businesses submit detailed plans to increase production, raise imports, or boost market output. Failure to comply with these directives could result in penalties.
However, the government has stated that it will not issue such orders if the domestic supply can be replenished through imports. In the case of rice, no immediate plans are in place to mandate production increases, as supplies have recently improved, although prices remain elevated.
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