Rice growers in Fukuoka Prefecture are concerned that prices for this year’s new crop could fall sharply despite continued increases in production costs. In Fukutsu, harvesting of the early-ripening Nijinokirameki variety is expected to begin around mid-August, with farmers anticipating a solid yield if weather conditions remain favorable. However, advance payments offered by agricultural cooperatives for early rice in Miyazaki and Kochi have reportedly fallen by nearly 40% from last year. Japan’s privately held rice inventories reached a record 2.43 million tons at the end of June, adding downward pressure on prices. Local producers said fertilizer and pesticide costs are about 30% higher than three years ago, while machinery and packaging expenses have also risen, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of rice farming. Source: TNC News / FNN News
Photo: Fukuoka Now
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