Japan's farm minister, Taku Eto, has issued a public apology after a controversial statement claiming he “never had to buy rice” triggered backlash among citizens struggling with record-high food costs. The comment, made during a political fundraiser on Sunday, was first reported by Kyodo News and quickly went viral, amplifying public frustration over rising staple prices and government inaction. Retail rice prices in Japan have doubled compared to the previous year,