In a dramatic political downfall, Japan’s Agriculture Minister Taku Eto resigned Wednesday after his boast about never purchasing rice due to supporter gifts ignited public outrage during the worst rice price crisis in four decades.
The controversy erupted when media leaked Eto’s comments from a Sunday fundraiser where he casually remarked: “I’ve never had to buy rice myself because I always receive it as gifts.” The tone-deaf admission went viral as Japanese households struggle with rice prices that have doubled year-over-year to their highest levels since the 1980s.
Political Firestorm:
- Opposition leaders branded Eto “hopelessly out of touch” with ordinary citizens
- Even ruling coalition members demanded his resignation
- PM Shigeru Ishiba’s approval ratings threatened ahead of critical July elections
Economic Backdrop:
- Rice prices have skyrocketed 100% since 2023
- Government price controls implemented in March have failed
- Staple food inflation becoming key election issue
Fallout:
Eto submitted his resignation early Wednesday after a sleepless night of damage control, telling reporters: “My remarks were extremely inappropriate given citizens’ suffering.” His departure marks the first cabinet casualty under Ishiba’s administration.
Successor:
Reports indicate former Environment Minister Shinjiro Koizumi – the charismatic son of ex-PM Junichiro Koizumi – will take over the agriculture portfolio in a move seen as both damage control and political renewal.
Market Impact:
- Rice futures showed muted reaction to resignation
- Analysts warn underlying supply issues remain unresolved
- Focus shifts to whether new minister can implement effective price controls
What’s Next:
The scandal has intensified pressure on Ishiba’s government to deliver concrete solutions on food inflation before summer elections, with Koizumi’s expected appointment representing both an opportunity for reset and a high-stakes gamble for the embattled administration.