Japanese retailers turn to California rice for cheaper alternative

japantimes.co.jpPublished: 5/14/2025

Summary

Japan's struggling rice supply chain is gaining momentum as major retailer Aeon begins to sell California-grown Calrose rice starting June 6, offering a much-needed alternative to scarce domestically grown options. U.S. Ambassador George Glass noted this move marks an important milestone in the country's efforts to diversify its agricultural sources and reduce reliance on imported products.