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 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 AI Strategic Headquarters is in the process of the creating the AI Basic Plan, which sets out the basic policy for measures to be taken by the government to promote the research, development and utilisation of AI. The Plan is expected to be approved by the Cabinet by the end of 2025.
The AI Strategic Headquarters is also in the process of creating guidelines to ensure appropriate research, development and utilisation of AI under the AI Act. The guidelines are expected to be finalised by the end of 2025.
In August 2025, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry created a committee to initiate discussions on 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
Integrated Innovation Strategy 2025" has been approved by the Cabinet Office in June 2025.
Link: https://www8.cao.go.jp/cstp/tougosenryaku/2025.html
The strategy covers a broad range of innovation initiatives and there is a heavy focus on AI as a fundamental technology.
AI is not specifically addressed in IP laws, but there are guidelines and reports that relate to AI and IP such as:
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.
Consent requirements for personal data used strictly for creating statistical data (including for AI development) will be considered in the next round of the APPI (Act on the Protection of Personal Information) reform.
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 15 October 2025
