Core Viewpoint - The Japanese government is considering releasing reserve rice to sake and miso manufacturers to address rising rice prices and shortages [1] Group 1: Government Actions - The Japanese Minister of Agriculture, Koizumi Shinjiro, announced plans to allocate government reserve rice to sake and miso producers [1] - Approximately 300,000 tons of reserve rice remain after previous releases, and a portion will be designated for this initiative [1] - The government is open to unlimited releases of reserve rice if demand arises and is also considering importing rice at minimum levels [1] Group 2: Industry Impact - The initiative aims to stabilize soaring rice prices, which have been affected by supply shortages [1] - Koizumi plans to meet with sake manufacturers and miso processing groups next week to discuss feasible measures [1] - The government will evaluate all options to ensure rice price stability [1]