Which privacy law should an owner research before expanding operations in Japan?

The Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI) is the correct choice for an owner looking to expand operations in Japan. This law is specifically designed to protect personal data within the context of Japanese jurisdiction. The APPI regulates how personal information is collected, used, and managed by businesses and organizations in Japan, providing clear guidelines for compliance.

Understanding APPI is crucial for any organization that handles personal data of individuals in Japan, as it establishes important principles regarding consent, data usage, and the rights of individuals regarding their personal information. By researching and adhering to APPI, an owner can ensure that their operations are compliant with local laws, minimizing legal risks and fostering trust with customers in the Japanese market.

Other privacy laws mentioned, such as the GDPR, while significant in their own right, primarily pertain to the European Union and do not directly apply to operations solely in Japan. Similarly, HIPAA focuses on healthcare-related information protection in the United States, making it irrelevant for business operations in Japan. The PDPA is pertinent to certain other jurisdictions, such as Singapore, but it does not carry the same relevance as the APPI when considering compliance within Japan. This specificity makes APPI the appropriate focus for any business expanding into the Japanese market.