Japan’s farm minister Taku Eto apologised on Monday after saying he had “never had to buy rice” thanks to gifts from supporters, angering consumers grappling with sky-high prices for the staple food.
Footage aired by public broadcaster NHK showed Eto at a lectern making the comments at the event on Sunday, including how he “had enough (rice) to sell.”
Had to look up several articles to better understand the shortage and it is still not entirely clear to me. Seems to be numerous factors all affecting Japan at the same time. I don’t envy them. increased prices in staple foods is really hard.
Several factors including massive protectionism (700% tariffs anyone?) and government policies explicitly meant to keep prices high. This is, above anything else, a self-own by the Japanese government.
The Japanese government and unorthodox fiscal policy—name a more iconic combo.
Fries and a vanilla shake
I don’t think I know anyone that orders that
I do! Sometimes I even drink the shake through the fry.