NHK has learned that Japan's government advisory panel on the coronavirus pandemic has called for stronger measures against cluster infections and more effective border controls.

The panel came up with the emergency guidelines on Monday in response to a current surge of infections in the northern prefecture of Hokkaido and many other regions.

Japan's minister in charge of the coronavirus response says the government will seek expert advice on whether to further ease the restrictions on public events.

Nishimura Yasutoshi took up the issue during a video conference with the leaders of three major business organizations.