Japan Enacts Law to Open Apple and Google App Stores to Third-Party Competition

New legislation mandates access to alternative app stores and payment systems, with significant penalties for non-compliance.

The law prohibits Apple and Google from blocking third-party apps and payment services on their platforms.
Violations will incur fines of up to 30% of domestic revenue for persistent non-compliance.
The legislation mirrors the EU's Digital Markets Act, aiming to foster innovation and consumer choice.
Japan's Fair Trade Commission emphasizes the need for a competitive environment in the smartphone ecosystem.
The law is expected to take effect by the end of 2025, providing a transition period for compliance.