Japan PM Ishiba Approval Rises Amid Rice Policy Shift

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's cabinet approval rating has increased to 37.0% from 31.7% in May, bolstered by growing public support for changing the government's policy on rice production amid soaring rice prices. According to Kyodo News and Asahi polls, a significant majority favor boosting rice production to address ongoing shortages, though over half still view the government's response as insufficient. While Ishiba's handling of the rice issue has improved his standing ahead of the July Upper House election, the administration's proposed cash handouts to mitigate inflation have faced notable public opposition. Ishiba is also engaged in trade negotiations with the United States, particularly concerning tariffs on Japanese auto exports, with a G7 summit meeting with President Donald Trump expected to help accelerate talks. Despite some progress, tangible breakthroughs in trade discussions remain limited. The mixed public response underscores the challenges Ishiba faces balancing economic issues and voter expectations as he seeks both domestic support and international agreements.