Japan's agriculture ministry has urged rice wholesalers to enable smooth distribution of the product amid a nationwide shortage.

Low stocks of rice at supermarkets around the country have left consumers scrambling to find available supplies.

The ministry issued a notice after Prime Minister Kishida Fumio instructed Agriculture Minister Sakamoto Tetsushi to address the issue on Tuesday.

It has sent the request in writing to rice brokers and wholesaler organizations.
The ministry says it will keep a close watch on the situation and will consider alternative measures if necessary.

It also plans to expand its provision of emergency rice supplies to cafeterias that provide free or low-priced meals to children from underprivileged families.

Requests for free rice from such facilities will be accepted throughout the year in all prefectures, starting next month. Currently, requests are limited to four times a year at 10 locations.

The ministry expects a normal rice harvest this year. Shoppers are asked to refrain from panic buying as it says supplies will soon recover.