Japanese Official Hiroshi Kasamatsu Detained in Myanmar Over Rice Pricing

Hiroshi Kasamatsu, a 53-year-old senior official of Aeon Orange Co, has been detained in Myanmar. The military junta claims he and 10 others sold rice at prices 50% to 70% higher than allowed. Aeon Co, the Japanese supermarket chain, is cooperating with local authorities and seeking help from the Japanese Embassy.

The Japanese Embassy confirmed that Kasamatsu is in good health and is calling for his early release. Japan’s top government spokesperson, Yoshimasa Hayashi, stated that the government is urging Myanmar to release Kasamatsu and is in communication with the company.

This incident has raised concerns for other Japanese businesses in Myanmar, especially since Japan has not imposed sanctions on Myanmar’s military following the 2021 coup. Aeon Orange was established in 2016 with the local retailer Creation Myanmar Group of Companies. The junta has been trying to stabilize the market by fixing prices of essential goods, including rice.