Public Policy & Governance
Japan's Civil Courts Go Fully Digital: What Expats Need to Know
Japan's civil courts launched a fully digital filing system on May 21, 2026, allowing online lawsuit submissions and case management. The change improves accessibility but requires legal guidance for navigation.
Public Policy & Governance
Naphtha Shortage Triggers Plastic Crisis: Garbage Bags Vanish from Shelves
A naphtha shortage is disrupting plastic production across Japan, causing garbage bags to sell out in stores. While ethylene production increased 3.6% in April, operating rates remain at record lows.
Healthcare
Fatal Drug Alert: 20 Deaths Linked to Vasculitis Treatment in Japan
Japan's health ministry warns of 20 deaths linked to vasculitis drug Tabneos, all involving severe liver damage. Enhanced monitoring and new safety warnings now required for medical facilities nationwide.
Public Policy & Governance
Japan-South Korea Summit Strengthens Energy Security Partnership
Japan and South Korea agreed to establish energy cooperation framework including stockpile enhancement and crisis response mechanisms, aiming to strengthen supply resilience and stabilize energy markets.
Public Policy & Governance
Japan Considers Summer Electricity and Gas Bill Support for Households
Japan's government is developing electricity and gas bill support for July-September 2026 as Middle East instability affects energy prices. Officials aim to ease summer utility costs without requesting conservation efforts.
Public Policy & Governance
World-First: Fully Farmed Eel Goes on Sale in Japan This Week
Japan launches world's first commercial sales of completely farmed Japanese eel this week, offering a sustainable alternative to endangered wild populations and traditional farming methods that rely on wild-caught juveniles.
Labor Law & Employment
Japan's Discretionary Work System Expansion Faces Strong Union Opposition
Japan's government plans to expand the discretionary work system, which exempts workers from overtime pay, despite strong opposition from Rengo union. The change could significantly affect foreign workers' compensation and working hours.
Financial Services
Rising Energy Costs Drive Price Increases for Home Goods and Summer Products
LIXIL will raise prices on home fixtures from August 2026 due to Middle Eastern tensions, while naphtha shortages threaten summer cooling product availability and costs for Japan residents.
Healthcare
Japan Assesses Low Domestic Risk from Congo Ebola Outbreak
Japanese health officials assess domestic Ebola risk as low despite WHO emergency declaration for Congo outbreak. Government holds response meeting while emphasizing no immediate threat to residents.
Technology & Startups
G7 Finance Ministers Target AI Security Risks Amid Financial Concerns
G7 finance ministers met in Paris to address AI security threats, particularly the Claude Mythos model. Japan's government is urging companies to detect vulnerabilities early as security firms face surging inquiries.
Public Policy & Governance
Japan Mulls Supplementary Budget for Energy Support as Middle East Tensions Rise
Japan's government is considering a supplementary budget to subsidize summer electricity and gas bills if Middle East tensions cause prolonged energy price increases, though fiscal concerns exist within government.
Disaster Preparedness
Japan Braces for Dangerous Heat Wave: Essential Prevention Tips for Expats
Japan faces dangerous heat wave with temperatures reaching 35°C in some regions. Medical experts warn against hesitating to use air conditioning, emphasizing regular hydration and heat stroke prevention.