Consumer safety protection in Japan

Abstract

Since the 60's, Japan has become a major partner in the international trade of consumer products and commodities. During the past few decades, in order to comply with international trade practices, Japan has adopted a large number of laws and regulations related to consumer safety and redress in case of serious injuries or damage. Although the Japanese culture is still primarily based on social harmony and although negotiating compromises is the prevailing method of resolving disputes in the domestic market, Japan has at present a complete set of rules and regulations for consumer safety which is orchestrated by the Ministry for International Trade and Industry. The overall objective is to enhance Japan's international trade performance. The protection of the 130 million consumers on the domestic market is ensured through a network of local advisory centers which operate under the authority of the local governments and the national Japan Consumer Information Center. It is observed that the interest in international exchange and cooperation in the field of product safety and consumer safety is rising in Japan and much more effort is being invested in basic research for product safety and injury surveillance.