Japan’s Environment Ministry is intensifying efforts to combat invasive longhorn beetles threatening cherry trees, requesting 6.7 billion yen (US$43 million) for the upcoming fiscal year’s initial budget.
The ministry stated that the requested funding represents an eleven-fold increase over the 600 million yen allocated for the 2026 fiscal year. These funds will target the eradication of the red-necked longhorn beetle and enhance protective measures for cherry, plum, and peach trees against infestation.
The ministry warned that unchecked growth in the beetle population could lead to significant agricultural damage, disrupt spring cherry blossom viewing, heighten the risk of tree falls, and harm local ecosystems.
In response to the widespread damage, the environment and agriculture ministries established a joint task force in July and adopted a strategy earlier this month, committing to deliver technical and financial assistance to local authorities.
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