Tech

Japan’s AI Regulation is a Significant Step Forward with the AI Promotion Act

Japan is honing its emphasis on artificial intelligence regulation with the passage of the Act on Promotion of Research and Development and the Utilization of Artificial Intelligence‐Related Technologies (AI Promotion Act) in May 2025. The legislation is Japan's first comprehensive piece of legislation specifically addressing AI — and has significant implications for the tech sector, business ecosystems and Japan's competitiveness in the digital age. Key Features of the AI Promotion Act The AI Promotion Act places AI technology as "fundamental technologies for building Japan's economy and society." Instead of enshrining tough binding regulations, the act sets out principle-based regulation and an "innovation first" approach. Obligations are, as yet, soft-law in character, seeking to balance commercial dynamism with risk sensitivity. Also Read: Lenovo and NIDEK Launch AI Data Center Cooling Tech…