- Japan plans stricter antitrust enforcement to prevent abuse of superior bargaining positions in supply chains.
- New rules will require payments within 60 days and prohibit unfair logistics practices toward transport companies.
Japan is preparing to strengthen oversight of commercial practices across manufacturing supply chains through new policy measures led by the Fair Trade Commission. The Japan Fair Trade Commission supply chain regulations aim to prevent powerful companies from exploiting smaller suppliers and subcontractors through unfair negotiation tactics, delayed payments, or operational pressure. By tightening antitrust guidance and clarifying unacceptable business conduct, the regulator intends to establish more balanced trading relationships across industries.
Stronger Antitrust Guidance for Supply Chain Transactions
The Fair Trade Commission plans to revise its Guidelines Concerning Abuse of a Superior Bargaining Position, which define how antitrust law applies to transactions where one party holds significant economic leverage. The update will add clearer examples of conduct that may constitute violations, including refusal to negotiate prices, withholding important information from suppliers, or implying that business relationships may be terminated if suppliers fail to comply with demands.
Payment Deadlines and Logistics Practices Under Scrutiny
Under the proposed framework, payment for contracted work will generally be required within sixty days after goods or services are received. The regulator will also prohibit consignees from forcing transportation companies to wait for loading or cargo handling without compensation. These measures aim to improve operational fairness across logistics and manufacturing networks while supporting small and medium-sized enterprises that often face financial pressure in supply chain transactions.
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