Japan's farm minister resigned after admitting he has never had to buy rice, causing outrage among locals struggling with high rice prices due to poor harvests and protectionist policies. The country's isolationist rice economy, aging population of farmers, and high demand from tourists have exacerbated the issue.
Key Points
Japan's farm minister resigned after admitting he has never had to buy rice, sparking outrage over high rice prices
Poor harvests and protectionist policies have led to soaring rice prices in Japan
The country's rice economy is isolated with stiff duties on imported rice, exacerbating the issue
Aging population of farmers and high demand from tourists have contributed to the supply-demand imbalance