Japan has introduced new rules requiring AI-generated images and videos used during election campaigns to be clearly labelled, as part of efforts to curb misinformation and protect the integrity of its electoral process.

The regulations, approved by parliament on Monday, will take effect in March. They also prohibit internet users and digital platforms from spreading false or misleading information about election candidates.

Speaking on Tuesday, Internal Affairs Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said the measures were designed to safeguard the fairness of elections.

“We believe that this is extremely important from the perspective of ensuring the fairness of elections,” Hayashi said at a press conference.

The reforms come after allegations that AI-generated content was used to discredit candidates during the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s leadership contest in 2025, as well as during parliamentary elections held in February.

Unlike the European Union’s Digital Services Act, Japan’s new framework does not provide for penalties against individuals or platforms that fail to comply with the rules.

Local media have questioned the effectiveness of the regulations without enforcement measures.

According to the Nikkei business daily, the absence of financial penalties may reflect Tokyo’s desire to avoid tensions similar to those that have emerged between the United States and the European Union over sanctions imposed under the bloc’s digital regulations.

The Japanese government is expected to issue implementation guidelines for social media platform operators, while companies will also be required to publish annual reports outlining how they are complying with the new rules, according to Kyodo News.