Using Table 1, calculate the percentage change in rice price between 2014 and 2015.
Explain how rice farmers in Japan gain from subsidies on fertilisers, power and water. Use a diagram to support your answer.
Explain how minimum prices will safeguard the interests of rice farmers. Consider whether the minimum price can be maintained in the long run.
Explain how the principle of comparative advantage may be used to justify Thailand and Vietnam specialising in rice production, while Japan specialises in another product.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of rice-importing countries removing their controls on the rice market. Consider whether, overall, the controls should be kept.