Japan is facing a rice shortage, which could cause prices to go up, leaving shelves empty.
Japan’s supplies are tight due to the government’s policy of paying farmers to grow less rice, combined with panic buying and a bad harvest last year.
Japan has released emergency reserves, but they are not hitting stores fast enough. The Ag Minister even resigned after making a comment about rice availability.
Some retailers are now turning to imports to fill the gap. Analysts say that as farmers age, Japan will need a long-term plan to fix its rice problem.
