Rice prices continue to climb in Japan. The average cost for newly harvested rice sold to wholesalers by farming cooperatives and others increased by 57 percent in October from a year ago.

The agriculture ministry says the average stood at 23,820 yen -- about 154 dollars -- per 60 kilograms.
That's the highest figure since the ministry began surveying prices in 2006. It eclipses the previous record, set in September.

The ministry attributes the steep price rise to increased payments by agricultural co-ops to farmers. It also cites fierce competition among organizations to secure the crop from farmers.

The ministry says the amount of rice sold at supermarkets and other retailers has been falling since late September.

It says it will continue monitoring the impact on retail prices.