The Japanese Diet has approved a new law aimed at tightening regulations on foreign sellers operating online in the country, following a rise in incidents involving unsafe products. The legislation now mandates that overseas companies appoint a local representative in Japan to oversee safety management, addressing concerns about accountability for items sold online.
Recent accidents linked to foreign-made products sold in Japan have included incidents like fires caused by faulty mobile batteries. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry reported a significant increase in serious accidents linked to online purchases, prompting the government to take action.
Under the revised law, online retailers will be required to remove unsafe products from their platforms and make these actions public if they are deemed hazardous to consumers. Additionally, businesses dealing with potentially dangerous items must display a safety compliance mark to signify adherence to Japan’s standards.
The new regulations also cover children’s toys, ensuring that all products meet technical standards before being sold. Any violations will lead to the public disclosure of the responsible party in Japan.
This proactive approach aims to safeguard consumers and enhance product safety in the digital marketplace, marking a significant step towards protecting Japanese consumers from potential risks associated with online purchases.
© KYODO