Japanese households face mounting financial pressure as rice prices remain at historic highs, with supermarket prices averaging 4,267 yen ($27) per 5kg bag this week according to Ministry of Agriculture data. The staple's cost has surged 18% since 2023, forcing families to rethink meal planning and grocery budgets.
Osaka residents told CGTN's local correspondents they've adopted strict cost-saving measures. "We now mix cheaper grains with rice," said 42-year-old mother Rika Tanaka, while retiree Hiroshi Yamamoto revealed he queues for discounted sales: "I can't afford fresh produce if I buy rice at regular price."
Analysts attribute the price surge to reduced domestic yields from extreme weather and increased production costs. The government has pledged 23 billion yen ($145 million) in farmer subsidies this quarter, though critics argue this fails to address immediate consumer needs.
Economists warn prolonged high prices could impact Japan's inflation trajectory, currently at 3.1% annually. With rice constituting 20% of average food expenditure, the crisis highlights growing challenges in balancing agricultural sustainability with urban affordability.
