In Ota Ward, Tokyo, a discount store named 'MEGA Don Quijote Omori Sanno' has seen an influx of customers eager to purchase stocked rice, particularly due to its economical price of 2,139 yen for five kilograms, compared to over 6,000 yen for branded rice. Young shoppers have taken advantage of this cheaper option, expressing their decision to buy stocked rice for the first time as a response to the high prices of new rice. This shift in consumer behavior reflects wider economic pressures and changing purchasing habits in the region.

Additionally, the drugstore chain 'Cosmos Pharmacy,' based in Fukuoka, has also continued selling government-purchased stocked rice from the 2022 harvest, reporting that approximately 70-80% of the expected stock has arrived at their stores. This statistic is revealing as it indicates a positive trend in sales once the products are available, suggesting that consumer demand remains strong despite current challenges in rice supply chains.

However, there are ongoing concerns regarding the efficiency of rice delivery and processing operations. Reports indicate that many expected shipments are still pending, which raises questions about the effectiveness and speed of the government’s agricultural policies. The situation exemplifies the complexities of food supply management in Japan and underscores the need for timely interventions to ensure that the demand for essential goods like rice can be met without delays.