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Japan

Prime Minister Abe Names New Agriculture Minister

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has named legislator Norihiko Akagi to head the agriculture ministry, replacing Toshikatsu Matsuoka, who committed suicide earlier this week.

Akagi, 48, is a Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) legislator in the lower house of parliament. He entered the agriculture ministry in 1983, leaving after seven years to pursue a career in politics. He also is the grandson of Munenori Akagi, who served six terms as agriculture minister starting in 1957.

USMEF Japan says Akagi’s ability to handle international issues bodes well and no immediate changes in office operation are anticipated. Akagi’s main priority is to continue Matsuoka’s work, which includes U.S. beef import negotiations and strengthening the domestic agricultural sector.

Additionally, the Abe administration hopes Akagi’s impressive background and heritage will create a positive image for the LDP in time for Japan's upper house election in July.

Japan

Prime Minister Abe Names New Agriculture Minister

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has named legislator Norihiko Akagi to head the agriculture ministry, replacing Toshikatsu Matsuoka, who committed suicide earlier this week.

Akagi, 48, is a Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) legislator in the lower house of parliament. He entered the agriculture ministry in 1983, leaving after seven years to pursue a career in politics. He also is the grandson of Munenori Akagi, who served six terms as agriculture minister starting in 1957.

USMEF Japan says Akagi’s ability to handle international issues bodes well and no immediate changes in office operation are anticipated. Akagi’s main priority is to continue Matsuoka’s work, which includes U.S. beef import negotiations and strengthening the domestic agricultural sector.

Additionally, the Abe administration hopes Akagi’s impressive background and heritage will create a positive image for the LDP in time for Japan's upper house election in July.