Japanese Agriculture Minister Taku Eto has resigned following an 'extremely inappropriate' comment about rice. The remark, made during a political fundraiser in Saga prefecture, sparked widespread criticism. Eto stated, 'I have never bought rice. My supporters give me so much rice that I have enough to sell from my home food bank.' The comment came at a time when citizens are struggling with historically high rice prices due to poor harvests and increased tourism demand.
After submitting his resignation, Eto admitted to making an 'extremely inappropriate remark' during a period of rising rice prices. The government has released rice from emergency reserves to curb prices, but with little effect. Consumers are increasingly turning to cheaper imported rice, raising concerns about dubious online sellers.
Former Environment Minister Shinjirō Koizumi has been appointed as Eto's successor, pledging to prioritize rice policy.