Japan has moved to revise its Economic Security Promotion Law to reinforce critical infrastructure security amid rising cyber and geopolitical threats. The government believes critical infrastructure security has become essential to protecting public safety and economic stability.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi instructed ministers to speed up the review during recent policy meetings. Officials plan to widen the list of essential infrastructure sectors and provide support to Japanese companies operating overseas. They intend to address vulnerabilities that have emerged since the law took effect in 2022.
The original legislation sought to secure strategic minerals and stabilize industrial foundations. However, new cyberattacks have exposed gaps in the legal framework and raised concerns about national resilience. Health care facilities have become a major focus after repeated security breaches across the country.
A hospital in Kagoshima Prefecture suffered a cyberattack that disabled a medical-image server. The disruption forced the hospital to limit emergency and outpatient services, which alarmed policymakers. Leaders want medical institutions designated as essential infrastructure to prevent future health-care crises.
Cyberattacks also affected companies outside the law’s current scope. Asahi Group Holdings suffered major production delays that disrupted beer distribution nationwide. Officials argue that even non-listed sectors play crucial roles in daily life and deserve voluntary access to information-sharing networks.
The revision will also support Japan’s strategy to secure critical minerals from diverse international sources. The government wants to assist Japanese firms with overseas port and shipbuilding projects to reduce supply-chain risks. Lawmakers believe stronger mineral supply routes will support both energy security and industrial growth.
Officials also flagged vulnerabilities in the telecommunications sector. Undersea cables suffered damage in multiple regions worldwide, which raised concerns about sabotage. Japan relies heavily on these cables for international data flow, and the law currently offers no protective mechanism.
Security analysts predict that the revised legislation will emphasize cybersecurity, resource protection, and supply-chain resilience. Industries expect clearer rules, faster support, and more coordination with the government. The initiative confirms Japan’s long-term commitment to critical infrastructure security during a period of growing global uncertainty.
