c/world · u/schizoidman@lemm.ee · 98 points
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."
u/PlasticLove@lemmy.today · 3 points
I do! Sometimes I even drink the shake through the fry.
u/9point6@lemmy.world · 2 points
I don't think I know anyone that orders that
u/CluckN@lemmy.world · 2 points
Fries and a vanilla shake
u/9point6@lemmy.world · 14 points
The Japanese government and unorthodox fiscal policy—name a more iconic combo.
u/NoneOfUrBusiness@fedia.io · 16 points
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.
u/GlassHalfHopeful@lemmy.ca · 33 points
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.
u/1Fuji2Taka3Nasubi@lemmy.zip · 3 points
He's probably losing his job over this.
Reuters: Japan PM Ishiba to sack farm minister Eto over rice remarks, Kyodo says