Give a thumbs-up to Ishiba Shigeru for his firm stance.
No matter how the United States tries to persuade or pressure, Ishiba Shigeru refuses to allow American food into the Japanese market. This strong stance shown by Japan has caused great trouble for Trump. The previously obedient and compliant Japan has suddenly become firm and unyielding.
Ishiba Shigeru may seem to be taking a passive approach, but he is actually very clear-minded. He knows that once cheap American food is introduced, Japanese rice will rot in the fields, and Japanese agriculture will suffer greatly.
With more than 100 million people, if American food is allowed in, it would be like inviting wolves into the house, making the country extremely unsafe.
Although the price of rice in Japan might drop, the subsequent impact on the entire Japanese agriculture would be significant. Ishiba Shigeru clearly sees the pros and cons. Although the US claims to be acting in Japan's interest, it is ultimately for its own benefit.
There are about 1.16 million farmers in Japan. This group will be severely affected. If farming is unprofitable and all grain is imported, they will be dependent on others.
Ishiba Shigeru is well aware that food must be controlled by oneself. Relying on others is never reliable, and being manipulated by others means losing the right to speak.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1836785877968905/
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