Japan's logistics "2024 problem": driver hours, freight rates and shipper rules
Notices from MLIT and MHLW on truck driver working hours, standard freight rates, shipper obligations and other measures following Japan's 2024 logistics reforms.
AI summaries and translations, not legal advice. The original Japanese notice is authoritative: each item links to it. Deadlines are taken from the original notices. Last updated Nov 6, 2026.
- FYI
MLIT launches a logistics 'general opinion desk' for reporting on-site problems
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) opened a single email channel on March 22, 2024 for logistics concerns from the field. Submissions are shared with the police, consumer affairs, labor, agriculture, economy and environment ministries. The aim is to address logistics bottlenecks quickly, especially those arising after April 2024.
- Important
MLIT opens consultation desk for warehouse and freight forwarding operators on price pass-through and negotiation
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has opened a consultation desk, starting 15 April 2024, for questions on passing on price increases and on price negotiations. It follows the government's logistics reform package and the 2023 guidelines on passing on labor costs through price negotiations, which set out 12 action principles for both clients and contractors. Consultations are accepted by email.