Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) continues to refine the Radio Wave Act to reflect rapid advances in wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi 7, 5G RedCap, and IoT connectivity.
In 2025, these updates focus on three main goals:
Spectrum modernization – expanding the 6 GHz and 5G bands.
Cybersecurity enforcement – making IoT security compliance mandatory.
Market supervision – introducing AI-driven sampling and stricter penalties.
| New Regulation Dimension | Core Content & Latest Requirements | Impact & Manufacturer Response |
|---|---|---|
| 6 GHz Band Full Rollout & Refinement | • Wi-Fi 6E/7: Beyond 5925–6425 MHz (UNII-5), 2025 expands 6425–7125 MHz (UNII-7/8). • New VLP device class for AR/VR, wireless cameras, etc. | • Manufacturers of Wi-Fi 7 and 6 GHz VLP devices must test to the updated Article 49-20 and demonstrate coexistence with satellite services. |
| 5G NR Band & Feature Expansion | • n79 (4.8 GHz): Stricter spectrum mask and spurious emission limits for base stations. • 5G RedCap: Dedicated guidelines simplify RF tests but tighten battery and security reporting. | • 5G vendors should pre-test against new RF limits; RedCap devices can follow optimized paths to cut time and cost. |
| IoT Device Cybersecurity Mandate | • Security declaration now mandatory for IoT products connected to public networks. • Must comply with IoT Device Security Baseline (secure boot, TLS 1.3/IPsec encryption, vulnerability management). | • Integrate security architecture early in R&D; submit self-conformity security report during certification. |
| Expansion of “Specified Radio Equipment” Catalog | • Adds UWB positioning tags, energy-harvesting sensors, and other low-power SRDs eligible for self-declaration. | • Manufacturers of listed devices can use the simplified Technical Standards Conformity Declaration route to reduce testing costs. |
| Market Surveillance & Enforcement Escalation | • AI-assisted data analysis targets high-risk products. • Higher penalties for repeat or intentional violations. | • Implement traceable production and quality systems; ensure all mass-produced units remain technically identical to certified samples. |
Japan has fully opened 5925–7125 MHz, aligning with global 6 GHz spectrum plans.
Manufacturers must now:
Test under revised Article 49-20 power and DFS rules.
Demonstrate satellite coexistence through spurious emission control.
Validate VLP (very low power) operation for AR/VR and wearables.
Wi-Fi 7 access points and 6 GHz AR/VR devices must include frequency coordination and AFC verification data in their RCB submission.
The Reduced Capability (5G RedCap) framework simplifies testing for industrial and IoT use cases but adds mandatory battery-life and network-security reporting.
Manufacturers should conduct early RF pre-tests to ensure compliance with the new n79 band limits and submit proof of secure network access design.
As of 2025, cybersecurity is no longer optional. All network-connected devices must submit a Cybersecurity Conformity Declaration including:
Anti-tampering design description
Secure boot and firmware verification mechanism
Encryption protocols (TLS 1.3 / IPsec)
Vulnerability management and update strategy
Integrating these features in hardware and firmware from the design phase prevents approval delays and future market withdrawals.
Although the official certification mark remains Ⓡ, MIC now requires:
For Software-Defined Radio (SDR) devices, the manual or UI must explicitly state that unauthorized software changes to RF parameters are illegal.
If a firmware update introduces new frequency bands or power levels, a change application to the original RCB is mandatory to maintain certificate validity.
For foreign manufacturers:
A Domestic Representative with a registered business address in Japan is required. MIC now reviews their ability to conduct market surveillance and product recall activities.
Maintain complete records of RF component procurement (antennas, amplifiers, modules) to demonstrate traceability during audits.
Strengthening supply-chain transparency is now a priority under Japan’s 2025 compliance framework.
Review your product’s frequency and RF architecture against updated standards (6 GHz, n79, UWB).
Incorporate security architecture early – document encryption and update mechanisms before testing.
Engage a qualified Domestic Representative and confirm they are listed in Japan’s official database.
Plan pre-testing with MIC-accredited labs to identify issues before formal submission.
Monitor post-market compliance – keep records of software revisions and maintain traceable logs for RCB review.
At Blue Asia Technology (Shenzhen), we specialize in helping international brands navigate Japan’s evolving Radio Wave Act requirements. Our team provides:
JP Full MIC Certification Services (Path A & B)
Wi-Fi 6E/7 and 5G RedCap testing solutions
Cybersecurity compliance and documentation support
Coordination with Japanese RCBs and Domestic Representatives
Pre-testing and cost optimization consulting
king.guo@cblueasia.com
+86 135 3422 5140
If you are developing a Wi-Fi 7 router, 5G industrial gateway, or IoT security device, Blue Asia can help you interpret the latest Radio Wave Act standards and accelerate market approval.
Request Your Free Japan Regulatory Update Brief →
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