SEOUL: South Korea's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs announced its decision to gradually reduce the country's rice paddy acreage in response to declining domestic demand. The initiative aims to align rice production with consumption trends while promoting environmentally friendly farming practices.According to Yonhap News Agency, the ministry reported a significant decrease in rice consumption among South Koreans, with the per capita consumption dropping from 61 kilograms in 2018 to 56.4 kilograms in 2023. This decline is attributed to changing dietary habits. The ministry emphasized the need for a self-sustainable agricultural system driven by market dynamics, acknowledging the limitations of relying solely on policy measures to stabilize supply and demand.The current rice paddy area, which spans approximately 698,000 hectares, is set to be reduced by 80,000 hectares next year. The government plans to incentivize farms that agree to decrease their rice production by purchasing their produce for reserves. Additionally, an allocation of 244 billion won (US$170 million) will be provided in subsidies to encourage the cultivation of alternative strategic crops such as flour, beans, and barley, marking an increase from the 186.5 billion won spent this year.In a parallel effort, the government intends to expand eco-friendly rice cultivation methods, aiming to increase the area from 35,000 hectares this year to 68,000 hectares by 2029. To further stimulate rice consumption, the ministry plans to explore the use of rice in related products, such as traditional liquor, and will offer tax incentives to producers.The South Korean government also seeks to boost exports of processed rice products, with a target of 180,000 tons by 2029, compared to the 100,000 tons expected this year. Moreover, in a gesture of humanitarian support, South Korea will increase its rice aid to African and Asian countries, providing 160,000 tons in 2025, up from 110,000 tons this year.
- September 13, 2026
