Japan businesses prepare for 2026 harassment prevention mandates

Japanese companies are preparing for upcoming legal reforms scheduled for 2026, which will mandate measures against customer harassment and sexual harassment during recruitment. Under the revised Labor Policy Comprehensive Promotion Act and the Equal Employment Opportunity Act, all businesses—regardless of size—will be required to implement prevention measures and establish consultation frameworks.

In response, several organizations are providing resources and guidance. MakeLeaps Inc., a Ricoh Group company, has published a basic policy to protect employees from customer harassment. Altius Link has released a practical guide (white paper) focusing on contact center operations and organizational responses. Additionally, Tokai Social Insurance Labor Consultant Corporation is hosting free online seminars to help small and medium-sized enterprises navigate these new legal obligations and develop effective internal systems.

Separately, the Iwakuni Chamber of Commerce and Industry is conducting seminars regarding heatstroke prevention, following revised labor safety and health regulations that make heatstroke countermeasures a corporate obligation starting in June 2025.