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Rice or defense? Japan's residents feel the cost of militarization

CGTN

 , Updated 15:07, 11-Dec-2025
Skyrocketing rice prices weigh on Japanese public as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi prioritizes defense spending. /AIGC
Skyrocketing rice prices weigh on Japanese public as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi prioritizes defense spending. /AIGC

Skyrocketing rice prices weigh on Japanese public as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi prioritizes defense spending. /AIGC

Japan's rice prices have surged to a record high, with 5 kilograms now costing over 4,000 yen ($25.53) for 13 consecutive weeks. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi remains focused on expanding defense spending. Many citizens say rice – a daily staple – has become a luxury they can no longer afford.

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