The Japanese government has decided to release some of its reserve stockpile of rice in order to help ease the global food crisis, by sending 20,000 MT to five African nations in coming weeks.

The rice, which is less than 1% of Japan's 2.23 million MT surplus, is part of a US$50 million emergency food aid plan.

Japan's decision to open up its rice warehouses comes as prices of the grain and other staples have jumped around the world, sparking violent protests in some countries.

In addition to the aid package, Japan is also considering a request by the Philippines to sell it some 200,000 MT of imported rice to ease rising global prices.