Soaring Costs and Rice Shortages Shake Japan’s Ruling Coalition Ahead of Election
Japan’s ruling coalition is under mounting pressure as rising consumer prices, a worsening rice shortage, and contentious tariffs spark public frustration ahead of national elections. The economic strain is testing voter confidence in Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s leadership, with critics pointing to policy missteps and sluggish response to inflation. As discontent grows, the coalition faces a tough battle to retain its hold on power amid deepening domestic challenges.