Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has finalized plans to buy back government reserve rice released in 2025, with a formal announcement expected in September after reviewing 2026 production data and consulting experts. MAFF released 590,000 tons during the shortage that began in summer 2024, known as the "Reiwa Rice Riots," reducing reserves to 320,000 tons. The government has indicated a purchase of roughly 150,000 tons, although the final volume and timing remain subject to review. Private rice inventories reached a record 1.62 million tons at the end of July, while the average supermarket price fell ¥35 in the week through August 23 to ¥3,156 per 5 kilograms. The buyback is intended to absorb excess supply, support producer prices and rebuild reserves, but market participants warn that the proposed volume may have limited price impact.