Catastrophe in Japan

The 11 March 2011, earthquake and tsunami that occurred in Japan followed by the nuclear crisis are having a large negative impact on the economy of Japan but a lesser effect on world trade and financial markets. Japan has lost considerable physical and human capital. In excess of 27,000 persons in Japan have been killed or are missing, and more than 202,000 homes and other buildings have been totally or partially damaged. The negative effects of the earthquake and tsunami are being compounded by the continuing crisis at the Fukushima nuclear reactors and the resulting evacuations, radioactive contamination and shortages of electricity; continuing aftershocks and the extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, manufacturing plants and other buildings. This book explores the catastrophe in Japan with a focus on economic and trade effects, as well as food and agriculture implications and the Fukushima nuclear crisis.