Regulatory Compliance News

Japan Updates Radio Act Regulations to Expand Sub-GHz Bands for Automotive Applications

Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) submitted a formal World Trade Organization (WTO) notification under the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) framework, detailing proposed technical amendments to the Ordinance for Enforcement of the Radio Act, the Ordinance Regulating Radio Equipment, and related ordinances on Technical Regulations Conformity Certification. The regulatory initiative focuses on updating performance parameters and technical standards for low-power radio systems, specifically expanding the usable sub-GHz spectrum allocated for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) devices operating in automotive environments.

A primary objective of the updated framework is the technical harmonization of Japan’s short-range radio rules with established international standards. The amendments formally expand the operational frequency band for TPMS and RKE systems to 433.05–434.79 MHz, providing automotive component manufacturers with a broader, globally unified spectrum allocation. Additionally, the revised regulations eliminate rigid legacy enclosure requirements that previously mandated specific physical housing constructions for sub-GHz radio modules. Removing these mechanical constraints aligns Japan with major international markets, significantly reducing the need for region-specific hardware redesigns and streamlining structural testing.

These technical updates directly affect type approval workflows governed by MIC-recognized Registered Certification Bodies (RCBs). Automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), component suppliers, and testing laboratories must ensure that sub-GHz transmitter modules and antenna designs comply with the revised 433 MHz technical parameters under Specified Radio Equipment rules. While existing Technical Regulations Conformity Certification marks (Giteki) remain valid for previously certified hardware, new product submissions and hardware modifications must incorporate these updated sub-GHz parameters into their technical construction files to secure market authorization across Japan.