Rice prices double in Japan

Rice prices in Japan surged 99.2 percent in June compared to last year, intensifying the pressure on Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba ahead of upcoming elections. Prices had already increased by over 101 percent in May and 98.4 percent in April.

Japan's core inflation rate eased slightly to 3.3 percent in June. Public support for Ishiba has fallen, driven by discontent over rising living costs and internal party scandals.

The ruling coalition may lose its majority in the upper house elections. Ishiba also faces pressure to finalize a trade deal with the U.S. before new tariffs on imports take effect.