Release of FY2026 Pest Forecast No. 8
Overview
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has released “FY2026 Pest Forecast No. 8.” Pest and disease outbreaks are expected to increase in some areas for fruit trees, soybeans, vegetables, and ornamental plants. The ministry advises carrying out control measures at the appropriate time, using prefectural pest forecast information and other resources as a guide. It also emphasizes integrated pest management focused on prevention and forecasting, in response to climate change and the development of pesticide resistance.
Key points
- Pest and disease outbreaks are expected to increase in some areas for fruit trees, soybeans, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
- The ministry advises carrying out control measures at the appropriate time, using prefectural pest forecast information and other resources as a guide.
- The ministry emphasizes integrated pest management focused on prevention and forecasting.
Overview
On October 7, 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries released “FY2026 Pest Forecast No. 8.” With prefectural cooperation, the national government analyzes weather, crop growth conditions, pest survey results, and other information, and provides pest forecasts and control measures. This forecast compiles pest forecast information provided by prefectures.
The national government provides pest forecast information under the Plant Protection Act (Act No. 151 of 1950) to support timely and economical pest control. Regional details are available on the websites of prefectural plant protection offices and other sources.
Impact
As climate change and the development of pesticide resistance make it harder to manage pests, diseases, and weeds, integrated pest management can create production environments less prone to their emergence and spread. To ensure a stable food supply supported by consumers, the ministry says it is important to carry out timely and appropriate control measures to prevent the spread of pests and reduce crop damage.
Details
Fruit tree stink bugs are expected to be more prevalent in some parts of the Tokai and Shikoku regions, and soybean pod-sucking stink bugs in some parts of Kinki and northern Kyushu. Among vegetables and ornamental plants, cotton bollworm, beet armyworm, and common cutworm are expected to be more prevalent in some parts of southern Tohoku, northern Kanto, Hokuriku, Tokai, Kinki, and southern Kyushu. Other pests, including citrus mites, are also expected to increase in some areas.
The ministry advises carrying out control measures at the appropriate time, using prefectural pest forecast information and other resources as a guide, and points readers to the Integrated Pest Management Practice Guidelines and Integrated Pest Management Practice Manual.