Japan: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications closes consultation on ministerial ordinance to amend part of Broadcasting Act Enforcement Regulations

On 25 June 2025, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications closes its consultation on the proposed ministerial ordinance to amend part of the Broadcasting Act Enforcement Regulations. The ordinance includes two draft amendments. The first draft outlines regulatory requirements for the business management and reporting systems related to distribution equipment. It sets out rules on the use of such equipment, notification of its technical specifications, and the obligation to report any service interruptions or serious incidents. These measures are intended to improve oversight and accountability in streaming operations. The second draft introduces technical standards to ensure consistent quality in mandatory broadcast distribution, in light of the obligation to offer both simultaneous and catch-up streaming services. It covers baseline requirements for distribution equipment as well as the management and reporting structures that operators must follow.