Japan: Implemented Act for the Protection of Consumers who use Digital Platforms

On 10 May 2021, the Act for the Protection of Consumers who use Digital Platforms comes into force. The Act obliges digital platform providers to ease communications between sellers and buyers on their platforms, initiate investigations if complaints are made and do identity checks of sellers as necessary. Listings of unsafe products must be removed if the seller is difficult to identify. Further, consumers have the right to request seller information when it comes to making claims for damages against sellers. The Act also holds that a public-private council of national government agencies and digital platforms is to be established in order to discuss issues arising in the area of digital platforms. The council must also establish a reporting system, where consumers can report risks to the Consumer Affairs Agency and request that appropriate measures are taken in response.