Japan is set to hold a minister-level meeting this week to tackle the rising price of rice. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced the initiative in parliament on Monday. The government aims to stabilize the supply of the nation's staple grain.
The move comes as public anger grows ahead of a summer election. Rice prices have doubled in the past year, adding to household financial strain. The government released 300,000 metric tons of stockpiled rice last week in an attempt to lower prices.
The upcoming upper house election poses a challenge for the current minority government. They hope to quell public discontent before the vote. Last year's general election saw an underwhelming performance, putting the government on the defensive.