Japan: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry adopted Contract Checklist for Use and Development of AI

On 18 February 2025, Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) published a Checklist of Contracts Concerning the Use and Development of AI, aimed at facilitating the practical use of AI across sectors. It provides a checklist to help ensure compliance with regulations, manage risks, and protect intellectual property and personal data. The guide covers various scenarios, including general AI service usage, customisation, and new development, emphasising the importance of thorough contractual agreements. It also addresses compliance with Japan's Act on the Protection of Personal Information, particularly regarding the provision of data to third parties both domestically and internationally. According to the Ministry, the checklist is designed to be practical and adaptable to different business contexts, ensuring that AI is used safely and effectively while minimising legal and operational risks.