Japan METI Trade News

Minister Akazawa Attends G7 Energy and Finance Ministers Online Meeting

Minister Akazawa Ryosei of Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry attended the G7 Energy and Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors online meeting held on March 30, 2026, chaired by France. Also attending from Japan were Finance Minister Katayama Satsuki and Bank of Japan Governor Ueda Kazuo, alongside representatives from IEA, IMF, World Bank, and OECD. Participants discussed the impact of the Middle East situation on global energy supply, demand, and economic activities, resulting in a joint statement.

Cabinet Approves Logistics Policy 2026-2030

On March 31, 2026, Japan's Cabinet approved the Comprehensive Physical Distribution Policy Outline (FY2026–FY2030), a five-year national logistics policy framework developed jointly by METI, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The outline establishes five strategic pillars: logistics efficiency improvements, transformation of business practices and industrial structure, improvement of logistics personnel working conditions, promotion of logistics DX/GX through standardization and stakeholder cooperation, and strengthening of supply chain resilience amid international tensions and natural disasters. The policy aims to ensure long-term sustainability of Japan's logistics sector and maximize its role as a growth engine during the intensive reform period through FY2030.

Child Bed Guards and Strollers Designated as Specified Products Under Consumer Product Safety Act

On April 3, 2026, Japan's Cabinet approved amendments to the Order for Enforcement of the Consumer Product Safety Act, designating child bed guards (for children up to 60 months) and strollers (for children up to 36 months) as specified products for children. These products must now meet technical standards and carry labels including the Children PSC Mark, intended age range, and usage precautions before sale in Japan. Enforcement begins July 8, 2026, requiring manufacturers, importers, and distributors to ensure compliance with the new requirements.