Why does Japan import (take in) so much agricultural product? What does it lack?
Japan imports a significant amount of agricultural products due to several reasons:
1. Limited arable land: Japan is a mountainous country with only a small percentage of flat and fertile land suitable for agriculture. As a result, there is a scarcity of arable land available for cultivation, limiting domestic agricultural production.
2. High population density: With a population of over 126 million people, Japan has a high population density. The limited domestic agricultural production cannot meet the food demand of its population, necessitating imports to bridge the gap.
3. Preference for variety: Japanese cuisine is diverse and relies heavily on a wide range of agricultural products. In order to provide consumers with a variety of fresh, seasonal, and high-quality ingredients, Japan imports a significant amount of agricultural products from different countries.
4. Climate limitations: Japan's climate is characterized by varying temperatures and precipitation patterns, which make it difficult to grow certain crops and fruits domestically. To meet the demand for such products, they are imported from countries with more suitable climates.
5. Shift to urbanization: Japan has witnessed a shift in its population from rural to urban areas, leading to a decline in agricultural production. The rural labor force has decreased, resulting in reduced domestic production and increased reliance on imports.
Some specific agricultural products that Japan lacks due to the above reasons include wheat, soybeans, corn, meat products, dairy products, and many fruits and vegetables that are not well-suited to the country's climate and limited land resources. Therefore, Japan heavily relies on importing these items from other countries to meet the needs of its population.