July 12, 2024

Hiroshi Kasamatsu, a 53-year-old Japanese director of Aeon Orange Super Market, appeared in court on July 11, following his arrest in June on allegations of inflating rice prices. Kasamatsu, an employee of the Japanese conglomerate Aeon, faced his first hearing at a Yangon court.

Kasamatsu was detained on June 30 alongside CEOs and managing directors from other supermarkets, accused of selling rice above the government-imposed price. If convicted of price gouging, he could face a prison sentence ranging from six months to three years.

Despite immediate calls from the Japanese government for Kasamatsu’s release, the junta has continued to hold him in custody. Kasamatsu is a leader in the product department of Aeon Supermarkets in Myanmar.

Since the military coup in 2021, Myanmar has experienced severe economic turmoil, with escalating prices for essentials like rice. Japanese news outlets have criticized the junta’s handling of the economy, highlighting the difficulties faced by businesses operating in the country. The incident has raised concerns among other Japanese investors about the potential risks of continuing operations in Myanmar.

The case of Hiroshi Kasamatsu brings to mind the tragic death of Japanese journalist Kenji Nagai, who was shot by the Myanmar military during the Saffron Revolution. This history of violence against Japanese nationals further complicates the diplomatic and business relations between Japan and Myanmar.