The Central Union of Agricultural Co-operatives (JA Zenchu) expresses its support for a 'rice coupon' system that is currently under discussion. This initiative, aimed to stabilize income of rice farmers across Japan, intends to provide households with rice 'coupons' that can be exchanged for actual rice. The exact details of how, when, and where these 'coupons' will be implemented are yet to be determined.

In Japan, rice is not just a food staple but serves as a symbol of traditional agricultural economy. The consideration of a 'rice coupon' system reflects the government's efforts to address issues of food security, stabilize the income for rice farmers, and maintain rice cultivation in a country where consumption has been declining.

In contrast to the US or EU, where subsidies are often provided to agricultural sectors, Japan uses unique measures like 'rice coupons' to support its domestic farmers. These coupons not only provide financial security but also promote local consumption of homegrown staple food, similar to food stamp programs in the US.