Tokyo, January 21, 2026 — Japan’s Fair Trade Commission summarised key views raised by experts across the country, with participants highlighting concerns around labour mobility restrictions, growing digital risks such as dark patterns and mounting pressure on regional markets, including fuel retailing and local transport services.
The JFTC said it holds annual dialogues in major cities with economic organisations, consumer groups, bar associations, academics and media representatives to capture regional realities and incorporate feedback into its enforcement and policy work.
Labour Mobility, Digital Issues and Regional Markets
In the labour market, some participants argued Japan’s penalties for competition law violations remain lighter than those imposed by European authorities, calling for tougher sanctions to strengthen deterrence against serious bid rigging and cartel conduct. Others pointed to the importance of clear guidance on what types of information-sharing could raise legal risks, citing the JFTC’s past warning to hotel operators as a useful example.
On digital issues, participants said dark patterns are spreading online, with malicious websites exploiting consumer confusion to steer users toward unintended choices. Others stressed the need for international coordination in implementing Japan’s smartphone software framework, warning that uniquely domestic rules could discourage firms from offering services in Japan. Some also drew attention to digital enforcement to concerns over Japan’s growing “digital deficit.”
Participants also discussed regional market challenges, including the sustainability of fuel retailing in depopulating areas and evolving conditions in bus and taxi services, where fare increases have become easier to implement without triggering significant customer losses.
Separately, participants raised concerns about price pass-through, particularly for smaller suppliers that fear retaliation if they seek negotiations, and urged broader outreach on reforms aimed at improving transaction fairness across supply chains.
Source: https://www.jftc.go.jp/houdou/pressrelease/2026/jan/260121minikoniken.html
