Japan’s parliament has passed its first legislation aimed at ensuring the safe development and use of artificial intelligence, responding to growing concerns over AI-driven misinformation and misuse.

Enacted on May 28, the law empowers the government to investigate AI-related misconduct by businesses and issue public warnings, though it stops short of imposing penalties. It also allows officials to advise companies found misusing AI.

A task force led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba will shape Japan’s broader AI policy, including the development of guidelines for companies and users.

The move aligns Japan with international regulatory efforts, following the European Union’s comprehensive AI law enacted in 2024.