European Union: Signed EU-Japan Memorandum of Cooperation on digital identities and trust services to implement data free flow with trust

On 30 April 2024, the European Union and Japan adopted a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to enhance Data Free Flow with Trust (DFFT). The MoC focuses on the implementation of reliable digital identities and trust services. The MoC aims to facilitate DFFT by establishing a shared understanding and collaborative framework for digital identity initiatives. The European Union and Japan committed to developing and harmonising digital identity frameworks to ensure secure and trusted interactions between citizens, businesses, and public authorities. The initiatives include the EU Digital Identity Wallet and Japan's Trusted Web, which are designed to simplify digital transactions and safeguard user data within and across both territories. At the OECD Ministerial Council Meeting in May 2024, under Japan's chairmanship, the MoC will be presented as a joint best practice to enhance and advance DFFT.