SOTIRIOS is a planet once focused on agricultural output that has gradually evolved into a much less rural society.  Its single continent is now almost completely covered by low-density housing, leaving the few remaining farms struggling to feed the people.  Because their leadership is drawn from a class of people who are considered to be more "productive" than farmers, the laws are arranged to enforce low prices for produce.  Rationing has been implemented to ensure that everyone gets a certain minimum amount.  Black market trading certainly happens, but the few farmers are closely audited to ensure that they're not the ones who obtain any benefit.  Indeed, there is little incentive for anyone to engage in farming only to potentially go hungry.  The great Sotirian Library has a permanent exhibit devoted to nostalgic tales about the planet's agrarian past.