Sep 14 (NHK) - Farmers in Japan's rice-producing regions have started harvesting and shipping this year's crop, helping to ease a nationwide shortage.
Niigata Prefecture has started deliveries of its popular Koshihikari rice. The variety is planted in about 60 percent of the region's rice paddies.
The local agricultural co-operative says it plans to ship about 130,000 tons this season, roughly 5,000 tons more than last year.
The shortages are easing in Tokyo as newly harvested rice begins arriving in stores.
A supermarket in the capital set up a corner to promote the new harvest, but with higher prices. A bag of 5 kilograms sold for an average of 3,000 yen or 21 dollars. That's 50 percent more expensive than last year.
The store says it has received many inquiries about supply. Some customers visit from far away.
A woman in her 30s said: "It's tough. Every type of rice is priced higher. I gave up trying to find a cheaper brand."
A customer in his 70s living on a pension with his wife said: "Not only rice, but everything is more expensive now. I'm really squeezed."
The supermarket operator says the store is doing all it can to make sure enough rice is on the shelves. It says it will resume sales promotions once it confirms supplies are sufficient.
