Transportation & Infrastructure
Japan Bans Mobile Battery Use on Flights, Limits Carry-on to 2 Per Person
Starting April 24th, Japan bans mobile battery use on all flights and limits passengers to two units in carry-on luggage. The new rules address safety concerns after multiple fire incidents.
Transportation & Infrastructure
ANA Receives Business Improvement Order Over Falsified Maintenance Records
Japan's transport ministry issued a business improvement order to ANA on April 14 after discovering falsified maintenance records. The airline must submit preventive measures by May 15, 2026.
Public Policy & Governance
TOTO Halts Bathroom Orders as Iran Crisis Disrupts Supply Chains
TOTO suspended system bathroom orders from April 13 due to petroleum supply disruptions from the Iran crisis. Expats planning renovations or moving into new properties should expect delays and confirm installation schedules.
Public Policy & Governance
Tokyo's Ogasawara Village Effectively Greenlights Nuclear Waste Survey
Ogasawara Village Mayor effectively approved a nuclear waste literature survey for Minamitorishima by deferring the decision to national government, marking progress in Japan's search for a permanent radioactive waste disposal site.
Technology & Startups
SoftBank, NEC, and Honda Launch National Physical AI Development Company
SoftBank, NEC, and Honda have established a new company to develop domestic Physical AI technology, marking Japan's coordinated effort to compete globally in autonomous robotics and systems that interact with physical environments.
Taxation
Zero Food Tax Proposal: What Price Changes Could Mean for Expats
Lawmakers debate eliminating Japan's 8% food consumption tax, but questions remain whether retailers would pass savings to consumers. The cross-party council examines implementation challenges and price transparency.
Technology & Startups
Japan Invests ¥631.5 Billion in Rapidus Semiconductor Initiative
Japan's government commits ¥631.5 billion to Rapidus for advanced semiconductor development, aiming to restore domestic chip manufacturing capabilities and create technology sector opportunities.
Labor Law & Employment
Japan Launches New Support Program for Employment Ice Age Generation
Japan's government has launched a new support program for the "employment ice age generation" (born 1970-1984), focusing on improving working conditions and promoting asset formation as they approach retirement age.
Public Policy & Governance
Iran Crisis Drives Fuel Prices Up: Japan Orders Direct Oil Sales
Japan's government orders oil companies to prioritize critical facilities amid Iran-driven fuel price surge. Bathhouses reduce hours, strategic reserves may be tapped, affecting expat living costs.
Taxation
Proposed Food Tax Cut Faces Industry Resistance Over System Upgrades
Japan's proposed elimination of consumption tax on food faces strong business opposition due to system upgrade challenges. Industry groups cite technical difficulties and costs, prompting government to consider implementation timeline adjustments.
Public Policy & Governance
Japan Secures Alternative Oil Supply Routes as Iran Crisis Escalates
Japan has secured alternative oil routes bypassing the Strait of Hormuz amid Iran tensions, ensuring supplies beyond the new year. The government plans to increase alternative procurement to maintain energy stability.
Financial Services
Rice Prices in Japan Expected to Drop Due to High Inventory Levels
Rice prices in Japan are expected to fall over the next three months due to high inventory levels. Industry outlook index at 27 signals continued downward price trend, offering relief for household budgets.