AI policies in Japan

Act on Promotion of Research and Development, and Utilization of Artificial Intelligence-related Technology

Act on Promotion of Research and Development, and Utilization of Artificial Intelligence-related Technology (Act No. 53 of 2025)

Japan's first AI-specific statute establishes basic principles and a governmental framework for promoting AI research, development and use. It creates an AI Strategy Headquarters under the Cabinet, requires the government to adopt an AI Basic Plan, and provides for guidelines, information gathering and investigation of cases where AI infringes rights, together with guidance to businesses and the public. Businesses are asked to cooperate with government measures; the Act contains no fines or prohibitions.

AI Guidelines for Business

The AI Guidelines for Business consolidate Japan's previous AI R&D, utilisation and governance guidelines into a single non-binding document addressed to AI developers, providers and business users. They set common guiding principles (such as human-centricity, safety, fairness, privacy, security, transparency and accountability) and describe agile governance practices, with an appendix of practical methods and checklists. The guidelines are updated periodically; version 1.0 was issued in April 2024 and version 1.2 in March 2026.

Artificial Intelligence Basic Plan

The AI Basic Plan is the national strategy required under Article 18 of the 2025 AI Act. It sets basic policies and concrete measures across four areas: accelerating AI deployment, strengthening development capabilities, leading AI governance and building an AI-powered society, with the stated ambition of Japan becoming the most AI-friendly country. The first plan was adopted by Cabinet decision in December 2025 and a revised second plan was adopted in July 2026.