Facing a significant rice shortage due to extreme weather conditions that devastated last year’s crop, Japan is investing in the development of heat-resistant rice varieties. Last summer’s high temperatures and drought led to a drastic reduction in rice yields, resulting in the lowest inventories in 25 years.
The local government in Saitama is spearheading efforts to create resilient rice strains, like the new variety known as emihokoro, or “beaming smile.” Farmers, such as 73-year-old Yoshitaka Funakawa, emphasize the urgency of developing heat-resistant varieties to ensure future crop viability as temperatures continue to rise.
High heat disrupts starch accumulation in rice grains, leading to undesirable qualities that decrease market value and farmers’ income. Researchers at Saitama’s Agricultural Technology Research Centre are working on cross-pollinating seeds to produce varieties better suited for hotter climates.
Japan’s rice market, known for its premium quality, has seen sharp price increases due to last year’s poor yields. As of June 2024, private rice inventories were at their lowest since 1999, exacerbating supply issues in supermarkets, where customers have faced empty shelves and purchasing limits.
While a new crop may alleviate some shortages by September, ongoing climate change poses long-term risks to rice production. The Japanese agriculture ministry has projected a 20% decline in paddy rice yields by 2100 unless measures are taken to adapt to changing conditions.