A survey indicates that Japanese rice producers, wholesalers and others in the industry expect prices for this year's harvests will increase.



The Rice Stable Supply Support Organization conducts a monthly survey of 180 producers, wholesalers and others in the country. The survey asked for respondents' views on prices, among other issues. It released a report on the August survey on Friday.



The coincident index for rice prices stands at 85, up 8 points from July. The index rises if respondents say they expect higher prices.



The leading index for the next three months is up 23 points to 69. The margin is a record since the survey began in 2012.



The organization says agricultural cooperatives are raising their temporary payment to farmers for this year's crops. It also says some of the respondents cited concerns about an impact on new harvests from the summer heat and a shortage of water.
----------------

Quiz 1:
According to a survey, what is the current value of the coincident index for rice prices?
A. 77
B. 85
C. 93
D. 101

Quiz 2:
The leading index for the next three months is at which level, as per the August survey report?
A. 46
B. 69
C. 87
D. 105

Quiz 3:
The Rice Stable Supply Support Organization conducts surveys on behalf of whom in Japan?
A. Agricultural cooperatives
B. Rice producers and wholesalers
C. The government
D. Farmers' associations