[Disclaimer] This article is reconstructed based on information from external sources. Please verify the original source before referring to this content.
News Summary
The following content was published online. A translated summary is presented below. See the source for details.
The Digital Agency of Japan has announced a public consultation on proposed amendments to ministerial ordinances related to the “Act on the Use of Numbers to Identify a Specific Individual in Administrative Procedures.” The consultation seeks public opinion on changes to regulations concerning the use of personal identification numbers and the information provision network system. As of August 23, 2025, this consultation is ongoing, with the submission period open through the designated government platform. The article outlines the purpose of the amendments, target regulations, how to access relevant documents, and the method for submitting opinions. While the exact closing date for this particular consultation is not specified, it follows a pattern of recent public consultations in Japan, such as one on generative AI guidelines that closed earlier in April 2025. The Digital Agency has not yet announced any results or feedback from this current consultation.
Source: digital-gov
Our Commentary
Background and Context
The public consultation process is a crucial component of Japan’s legislative and regulatory framework, particularly in the realm of digital governance. The “Act on the Use of Numbers to Identify a Specific Individual in Administrative Procedures” is a cornerstone of Japan’s efforts to modernize its administrative systems and enhance data interoperability across government agencies. This consultation reflects the ongoing evolution of Japan’s digital infrastructure and the government’s commitment to transparency and public engagement in policymaking.
Expert Analysis
The proposed amendments to the ministerial ordinances suggest a continued refinement of Japan’s digital identification system. While specific details of the changes are not provided, they likely aim to address emerging challenges in data protection, system efficiency, or expanded use cases for the identification numbers. The ongoing nature of the consultation as of August 23, 2025, indicates that the Digital Agency is maintaining an active dialogue with the public on these important issues.
Key points:
- The consultation focuses on personal identification numbers and information network systems
- It follows recent trends in Japan’s digital policy development, including AI governance
- Public engagement is sought through an established government platform
Additional Data and Fact Reinforcement
While specific statistics for this consultation are not available, recent digital governance initiatives in Japan provide context:
- A consultation on generative AI guidelines closed on April 11, 2025
- The Digital Agency published results from an Education DX Roadmap consultation in June 2025
- Data governance guidelines have been subject to public consultation with draft insights published
Related News
This consultation aligns with broader trends in digital governance across Asia. For instance, Singapore’s Ministry of Digital Development and Information is conducting a similar consultation on amendments to the Public Sector (Governance) Act, scheduled to close on September 2, 2025. These parallel efforts highlight the regional focus on updating digital infrastructure and regulations.
Summary
The ongoing public consultation by Japan’s Digital Agency represents a critical step in refining the country’s digital identification system. While the specific outcomes remain to be seen, this process underscores Japan’s commitment to collaborative policymaking in the digital sphere. Stakeholders should monitor for the eventual publication of results and any subsequent policy changes that may impact digital governance in Japan.
