Abstract
This study provides an overview of the impact of COVID-19 on food consumption, tourism, and agricultural management and clarifies the impact of reduced tourism and exchange opportunities on agriculture and rural areas in Okinawa. An overview of national trends from the statistical data analysis shows that, first, due to the impact of COVID-19, household expenditure on eating out, accommodation, and travel expenses package tours has decreased significantly, while spending on food has increased. Second, many farmers, especially those of tea, cattle, and institutional flower have been negatively affected. The points clarified from the case study of Okinawa are as follows. First, in rural areas, farmers’ incomes have decreased significantly due to the decrease in urban– rural exchanges. Additionally, the rural economy is greatly affected. Second, the sales of farmers engaged in the sixth industrialization have decreased significantly, and those who made large capital investments are facing difficulties. Third, in the beginning, the price of Japanese beef fell, negatively impacting the farmers. However, the price has almost recovered since then, and the impact is not as significant as it was initially.
