Lawson and FamilyMart begin selling government-stockpiled rice

Rice shortages have sparked efforts from major grocers as they scramble to secure supply amid a nationwide shortage. Lawson began selling 1kg ($0.59) and 2kg bags of rice at ¥360 and ¥700 (pre-tax) in Tokyo and Osaka starting Thursday, with more stores nationwide opening June 14th. Meanwhile, FamilyMart has already started sales across 20 outlets and plans to have all its stores sell stockpiled rice by mid-July. Both companies aim to lower prices for certain brands to help stabilize the market as grocers compete to secure much-needed supplies.