Japan is experiencing a serious rice shortage due to extreme weather that damaged last year’s crop. Last summer’s high temperatures and dry conditions drastically reduced rice yields and quality. Consequently, Japan’s rice reserves have fallen to their lowest level in 25 years. The shortage is worsened by increased demand from a record number of tourists, leading to empty supermarket shelves. Some stores have even limited how much rice customers can buy. To address this issue, the local government in Saitama, north of Tokyo, is working on developing rice varieties that can better endure high temperatures. Scientists are testing a new variety called “emihokoro,” which is designed to withstand extreme heat while maintaining good quality.

This initiative is part of a broader national effort to create more resilient rice varieties. Researchers at Saitama’s Agricultural Technology Research Centre are experimenting with cross-breeding seeds from various regions to find the best heat-resistant types. Despite these efforts, the rice shortage has caused prices to rise sharply. By June 2024, private rice stocks were at their lowest, and prices, excluding premium brands like “koshihikari,” increased at the highest rate in over 20 years. Even though a new crop might help reduce the shortage by September, the tight supply is expected to continue into next year. The government is concerned that climate change could further impact rice production unless adaptation measures are taken.