Japan proposes law to classify more information as confidential

27/2/2024 19:32

        Japan's government on Tuesday proposed legislation that will allow it to classify more information as confidential and ask employees at companies with
        access to it to undergo security clearance checks.
        
        The bill, however, will likely face resistance from opposition lawmakers, who argue the new rules could impinge on civil liberties.
        
        Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's administration says the move would bring Japan more in line with western governments and allow it to share more information with businesses at home and its allies overseas.
        
        "I believe a security clearance system will not only strengthen information security in Japan but also increase international business opportunities for Japanese companies," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said at a press briefing. The legislation is expected to be presented to parliament soon.