Japan Imports South Korean Rice for First Time in 25 Years Amid Soaring Crisis

For the first time since 1999, Japan has imported rice from South Korea to combat a mounting domestic rice crisis. The shipment, which arrived last month, marks a historic move for a country that has long prided itself on the superiority of its homegrown grain. The initial import quantity was modest—just two tonnes—but there are already plans underway to import an additional 20 tonnes, according to Japan’s public broadcaster NHK.

This decision reflects the severe shortage and escalating prices that have plagued the domestic rice market. The Yonhap news agency reported that South Korea’s rice exports to Japan are expected to reach their highest levels since 1990. This crisis is not only boosting South Korea’s exports but also opening new opportunities for rice producers in the United States.

Surge in Prices and Consumer Shift

Japanese consumers have historically been wary of foreign rice, viewing it as inferior in taste and quality. This sentiment was evident during the 1993 “rice shock,” when Thai rice imported after a poor domestic harvest largely went unsold. However, the current shortage has forced a shift in consumer behavior.

Supermarket prices have soared, with the average cost for 5 kilograms of rice hitting ¥4,214 ($30/£22) by early April—more than double the price a year ago. Consequently, consumers have become more open to foreign alternatives.

Restaurant owners are also adapting. Arata Hirano, a Tokyo restaurateur, switched to American rice last year amid the shortage. Although the price of Californian rice has doubled since he first purchased it, it remains cheaper than Japanese-grown rice. Diners, like Miki Nihei, expressed surprise at the use of imported rice but indicated no dissatisfaction, emphasizing the importance of affordability during tough economic times.

Government Intervention and Logistical Challenges

In response to the skyrocketing prices, the Japanese government tapped into its vast rice reserves for the first time not due to a natural disaster or crop failure, but to address distribution issues. In March, authorities released 210,000 tonnes of stockpiled rice.

Despite this intervention, the measure has had limited effect. The agriculture ministry revealed that logistical hurdles—chiefly a shortage of delivery vehicles and the preparation time required to make the stockpile sale-ready—severely restricted distribution. Only 426 tonnes, or 0.3% of the released rice, had reached retail outlets by the end of March.

Japan’s rice stockpiles had already been under strain due to a combination of factors: record-breaking summer heat that harmed the 2023 crop, a surge in tourist-driven consumption, and panic buying linked to typhoon and earthquake warnings. These pressures compelled some retailers to impose limits on rice sales to customers.

Outlook

The ongoing crisis in Japan’s rice market underscores the vulnerabilities in its food security infrastructure, particularly regarding distribution networks and reliance on domestic production. While the public’s gradual acceptance of foreign rice reflects a significant cultural shift, the situation remains precarious. Further imports and government interventions may be necessary to stabilize prices and ensure a steady supply of this staple food.