Japan ditches historical rice curbs as PM Ishiba's fate hangs in the balance

Move could win support from farmers and ease consumer frustration over soaring costs

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TOKYO - In a break from a decades-old policy, the Japanese government will encourage farmers to disregard a de facto cap on rice production and boost cultivation of the food staple, a step that could win support from the agriculture sector and ease consumers' frustration over soaring living costs.

"We will shift our policy to increase rice production, so that we will be capable of responding to changes in demand and supply flexibly and comprehensively," said Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in a ministerial-level meeting on Aug 5 that focused on securing a stable supply of rice.

The move may give Mr. Ishiba another mission that justifies staying in power - ignoring calls to step down after the ruling coalition's poor showing in an Upper House election in July.

It could also spotlight Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, who has been touted as a potential future prime minister, as Mr. Ishiba's fate hangs in the balance.

As part of the initiative, the government will also work to ensure rice padis are passed on to future generations and urge farmers to seize export opportunities, Mr. Ishiba said.