Peasant Uprising

On July 11, local farmers marched through Niigata City in a protest they called a “Peasant Uprising.” Their message was simple: “Protect Japan’s farmers.” “Create conditions that allow us to keep producing rice sustainably.” But why are Japanese farmers being pushed this far? The cost of fertilizer, fuel, pesticides, machinery and other essential supplies has risen sharply. At the same time, when the supply of rice increases, the price paid to farmers falls. Farmers are being crushed from both sides.