Japanese farmers plan to switch to wheat instead of rice due to high prices

Out of Japan’s 47 prefectures, 37 have said that in 2022, the area under cultivation for rice will be reduced with a shift towards wheat and soybeans due to rising grain prices.

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“More farmers are switching to wheat and soybeans as global prices rise. In addition, demand in the countries producing them is already at a high level, ”the Japanese department noted.

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The publication indicated that about 80% of wheat and 90% of soybeans consumed by Japan are imported. In recent months, these crops have risen in price amid Russia’s special operation in Ukraine.

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Of the 37 prefectures that will cut rice production, some have reported production cuts of 3-5% or more. Analysts have calculated that the total area for rice cultivation will decrease by 35,000 hectares.

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On June 7, Russia suspended the agreement with Japan on cooperation in the field of harvesting marine living resources, which was concluded in 1998. It allowed Japanese fishermen to fish near the southern Kuril Islands.