Japan: Closed Consultation on Amending Ministerial Ordinance of the Ordinance Regarding the Use of Information and Communications Technology in the Storage of Documents by Private Businesses,

On 28 February 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs closed a consultation on proposed amendments to the ministerial ordinance governing the use of information and communication technology in document storage by private businesses. Aligned with the "Digital Principles" established by the Digital Temporary Administrative Investigation Committee, the amendments aim to address and modernise regulations hindering online procedures, allowing for the incorporation of new technologies. Specifically, the proposed changes seek to enable the application of cloud services in the processes of application, issuance, creation, and storage of electromagnetic records. This solicitation of opinions is part of a broader initiative to encourage regulatory reforms and enhance the effective use of information and communication technology in government affairs and private business operations.