As the rice shortage in Japan drags on, farmers and dealers are worried that it could lead to price hikes that drive consumers away.

People in rice-related businesses gathered for a meeting at the agriculture ministry on Wednesday.

Ministry officials say sales volumes at supermarkets have surged since August. Meanwhile, rice inventories have fallen below levels from a year ago.

Some wholesalers worry that people may eat less rice if the prices rise further. They say price tags now top 3,000 yen, or about 20 dollars for 5 kilograms.
That compares to about 10 to 14 dollars last year.

Rice wholesaler Fujimoto Kei says, "Stores should have more rice on the shelves in about two weeks. We are asking our customers to wait."

Delivery companies say they're getting ready for shipments of the year's first rice crop to ensure quick distribution.