Iran situation affects Japan's spring rice planting
March 9, Asahi Television report: If the tension in the Middle East continues, it will affect rice production in Japan. Farmers about to enter the rice planting season are worried.
The Israeli military attacked Iran's oil storage facilities, and the situation in the Middle East is becoming increasingly tense.
Mr. Masao Tada, a rice farmer in Higashisoma Town, Chiba Prefecture, said, "I am planning to start transplanting seedlings around April 1st." Currently, he is busy with "seedling cultivation," planting 80 hectares of seedlings to prepare for rice planting next month.
Mr. Tada said, "Even if diesel for tractors increases by 10 yen per liter (about 0.44 yuan RMB), it would be a big problem. Large tractors use 200 liters per day." "If the price increases by 10 yen per liter, the cost would increase by nearly 60,000 yen (about 2,640 yuan RMB) per month."
Early this week, the crude oil market rose sharply due to concerns about worsening situations. The increase in costs has become inevitable.
Mr. Tada also said, "I have no choice but to give up planting..." "In addition, fertilizers used in spring are affected. If enough fertilizer is used, there will be no seedling failure, and good rice can be grown."
"Fertilizer containing nitrogen, applied before and after sowing and before harvest, is crucial for the growth of rice leaves and stems."
Imported urea is a raw material for nitrogen fertilizer. About 40% of global urea exports come from the Middle East. There are currently no major obstacles in purchasing fertilizer raw materials, but if this situation continues, the impact may spread, and procurement may become difficult.
Finally, Mr. Tada said, "A slight increase in oil prices can be handled, but small farmers have no choice but to stop planting."
Original: toutiao.com/article/1859193687227401/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.