Japan's health ministry has decided to approve online sales of antigen coronavirus test kits if they meet certain conditions such as their accuracy is on a par with government-approved products.

Sales of the products at pharmacies have been allowed since late last year, as a special measure, on the conditions that pharmacists explain how to use them to buyers.

Experts have advocated that a system should be put in place so that people would always be able to acquire affordable kits.

They say this is because the need for proof of a negative virus test result is expected to increase, if economic and social activities pick up.

They also noted that the latest surge of COVID-19 infections in Japan has flooded medical institutions with patients and made it difficult for people to get tested.

The ministry's panel of experts met on Wednesday and approved online sales of antigen test kits as a special measure.

At the meeting, some panel members said buyers would need a detailed explanation such as how to properly carry out the test or what to do if the result is positive. Others said stocks should be managed so that medical institutions have priority to procure the test kits.

The ministry plans to discuss whether consumers will require explanations from pharmacists. Officials have already drawn up guidelines for manufacturers, retailers and consumers. The online sales of the test kits are likely to begin within this month at the earliest.