Ministry of Agriculture Inspects Drought Response in South Gyeongsang, Promotes Consumption of Perilla Leaves Amid Falling Prices

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs inspected the drought response situation and the supply and demand trends for perilla leaves at Gasan Reservoir and the East Miryang Agricultural Cooperative distribution center in Miryang, South Gyeongsang Province, today (the 28th).

According to the Ministry, precipitation in the South Gyeongsang region over the past two months (May 28 to July 27) stood at 162 mm, which is only 34% of the historical average.

The reservoir storage rate in the Miryang area is 33.9%, the lowest level nationwide.

Typically, prices for perilla leaves rise during the summer due to decreased production and increased demand from the vacation season. However, this year, prices have fallen below previous years and seasonal averages due to increased production driven by favorable weather conditions in June and July, as well as sluggish consumption caused by a delayed monsoon season.

According to the Korea Agro-Fisheries & Food Trade Corporation (aT) Food Industry Statistics Information, the average price of 2 kg of perilla leaves stood at 23,040 won as of yesterday (the 27th), down 11.1% from the previous year.

To boost the consumption of agricultural products experiencing price drops, such as perilla leaves, the Ministry is holding discount events of up to 20% and is also carrying out consumption promotion campaigns in connection with direct markets, consumer groups, and the Korean Dietetic Association.

Park Jung-hoon, Deputy Minister for Food Policy, stated, "Please mobilize all available equipment, manpower, and financial resources to minimize crop damage and prepare for a prolonged drought," adding, "We will strive to ensure stable production and guaranteed income for farmers."

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.