The "Act on Promotion of Research and Development, and Utilization of AI-related Technology" (referred to as "AI Act") was enacted on 28 May 2025 and has come into full force on 1 September 2025. The Act, which takes a pro-innovation approach, establishes the basic principles and framework for the government to strategically promote research, development and use of AI technology while mitigating risks. Private sector organizations are required to comply with the basic principle of the Act and while there are no penalties, use of AI that violates the rights and interests of others may be subject to administrative action.
The overview of the Act in English version is available here
Our Bird & Bird article of the topic: https://www.twobirds.com/en/insights/2025/japan/japans-new-ai-act-examining-an-innovationfirst-approach-against-the-eus-comprehensive-risk-framework
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The AI Basic Plan was approved by the Cabinet on 23 December 2025. This plan, created in accordance with Article 18, Paragraph 1 of the AI Act, lays out the strategy to achieve the national goal of becoming the most AI-friendly nation in the world by pursuing "trustworthy AI". The plan lays out three principles (Promoting innovation while mitigating risks, Agile response and Promotion of Integrated domestic and international policies) and four basic policies (Adopt AI, Create AI, Enhance AI Trustworthiness, and Collaborate with AI), as well as the specific measures the Government will implement.
In accordance with Article 13 of the AI Act, the AI Strategic Headquarters approved the "Guideline for Ensuring the Appropriateness of Research & Development and Utilization of Artificial Intelligence-Related Technology" on 19 December 2025. The Guidelines have been created in accordance with international norms toward the realisation of trustworthy AI, aiming to encourage voluntary and proactive efforts by all societal stakeholders for the appropriate implementation of R&D and utilisation of AI.
The approach in Japan is to promote innovation while mitigating risks through the appropriate combination of laws and guidelines. Some key guidelines are:
Additionally, there are reports that provide recommendations such as:
The draft of the "Principle-Code for Protection of intellectual property and transparency for the appropriate use of generative AI (provisional title)" has been released by the Cabinet, and a consultation has been initiated. The Principle Code aims to establish the principles for measures that generative AI businesses should take to ensure transparency and protect intellectual property rights.
Link: https://www.kantei.go.jp/jp/singi/titeki2/ikenboshu_20251226.html
The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has released a draft proposal of the "Guidelines on Technical Measures for AI Security" and initiated a consultation process for the Guidelines.
Link: https://www.soumu.go.jp/menu_news/s-news/02cyber01_04000001_00337.html
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has created a committee to discuss how civil liability (e.g. tort, product liability) should be interpreted and applied to accidents involving AI systems. Through analysing hypothetical cases, the committee seeks to provide guidance to enable smooth dispute resolution while supporting the safe adoption of AI.
Link: https://www.meti.go.jp/shingikai/mono_info_service/ai_utilization_civil/index.html
AI is not specifically addressed in IP laws, but there are guidelines and reports that relate to AI and IP such as:
Currently, AI is not addressed specifically in data protection laws or guidelines, but the PPC (Personal Information Protection Commission) has issued guidance on the use of generative AI.
The PPC has released the policy direction for the triennial review of the Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI), setting out a comprehensive reform framework aimed at early submission in 2026 of amendment legislation to the Diet. According to the directions, consent will not be required for third-party provision of personal data and acquisition of publicly available sensitive personal information when used solely for statistical purposes (including AI development), subject to conditions ensuring minimal risk to individual rights.Under the newly enacted AI Act, the AI Strategic Headquarters chaired by the Primer Minister and comprised of Cabinet Members was established on 1 September 2025. Under the AI Act, the government will have the authority to collect information and investigate any use of AI that violates rights and interests.
Otherwise, there is no central AI authority, as AI used is across industries and sectors and businesses will be regulated by their supervising government institution, including for use of AI.
Unlawful activity using AI is expected to be penalised or regulated under the existing legal framework. For example, there have been some criminal cases where AI was used to commit fraud and other crimes.
*Information is accurate up to 21 January 2026
