Japan: Entry into force with grace period Law to Amend the Basic Act for Establishing a Digital Society

On 7 June 2024, the Law to Amend the Basic Act for Establishing a Digital Society entered into force with a grace period in Japan following its official publication. The Law will be fully implemented by government ordinance within, at most, a year and three months after publication. The Law aims to enhance the convenience of administrative procedures through the use of information and communication technology and to simplify and streamline administrative operations. The changes include measures to ensure data quality, promote database development and data linkage by the government, strengthen the system to effectively maintain databases and systems, and introduce measures related to My Number, which will enable individuals' online identification. The Law also requires the creation of a 'Public Basic Information Database Development and Improvement Plan' and the addition of the Prime Minister (Digital Minister) to the list of ministers in charge of related affairs.