Japan to increase butter imports www.nhk.or.jp
Japan's agriculture ministry is planning to import another 4,000 tons of butter, as raw milk production may fall in some areas of the country.
Ministry officials say cows have been in poor condition in Hokkaido and Iwate prefectures, which were hit by typhoons last month.
The ministry earlier decided to import 13,000 tons of butter, as a shortage is expected this year as in recent years.
Officials say another 4,000 tons are needed to have a sufficient amount after Christmas and year-end, when demand usually surges.
The ministry will make an official decision on Tuesday after hearing from wholesalers and consumer groups.
The number of domestic dairy farmers has been shrinking, causing a drop in milk production. Dairy producers in Japan tend to sell milk for drinking or use it to make whipped cream rather than butter.
Published Date:2016-09-27