Japan hits record low food waste as rice sales slump to historic lows

Government data show that Japan's food waste fell to a record low of 4.61 million tonnes in fiscal 2024, the lowest level since records began in 2012. The decline represents a third consecutive year of reduction, with household waste falling to 2.24 million tonnes while waste from businesses rose slightly as restaurant visits increased after the pandemic. The authorities aim to cut waste further to 2.19 million tonnes for businesses and 2.16 million tonnes for households by fiscal 2030 and have begun certifying food banks to promote donations.

Separately, rice sales from the 2025 harvest to Japanese wholesalers dropped to a record low of 1.32 million tonnes, a 17% fall from the previous year. Demand has shifted toward cheaper government‑released stockpiled rice and imports, while private‑sector inventories surged 51% to 2.23 million tonnes, near the 2014 record. Retail rice prices fell to 3,590 yen per 5‑kg bag, and inventories are projected to exceed optimal levels by mid‑year.