Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) has released a draft report under Inquiry No. 30 addressing both future spectrum use and the wireless equipment certification framework. The Japan 900 MHz reform centers on reallocating frequencies currently used by MCA systems while simultaneously reviewing the structure of the radio equipment certification regime.
Importantly, this initiative forms part of broader discussions within the Information and Communications Council and its Radio Policy Committee . Moreover, the Ministry has opened the draft for public consultation, allowing stakeholders to submit comments until March 19, 2026 .
MCA Service Termination Timeline
As outlined in the draft report, Japan will phase out existing MCA land mobile services over the coming years. Specifically, “Advanced MCA” services will terminate by March 31, 2027, while “Digital MCA” services will end by May 31, 2029 .
Because these services currently occupy portions of the 900 MHz range, their termination creates regulatory space for reconsidering spectrum utilization. Consequently, MIC has begun evaluating alternative uses for the 890–900 MHz and 928–945 MHz bands .
Review of 890–900 MHz and 928–945 MHz Bands
Following the announced sunset schedule, the Ministry conducted a needs survey between August 25 and October 1, 2025, targeting the 890–900 MHz and 928–945 MHz ranges .
During this process, several stakeholders submitted proposals. These included:
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MetCom Co., Ltd.
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NTT DOCOMO, INC.
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Wi-SUN Alliance
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802.11ah Promotion Council
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Specific Radio Microphone Operation Coordination Organization
The proposals covered multiple potential applications. For example, some submissions suggested continued or expanded Advanced MCA systems, whereas others proposed 3GPP-based mobile communications. Additionally, certain stakeholders recommended low-power wireless technologies such as IEEE 802.15.4 and IEEE 802.11ah, while others proposed specific radio microphone use .
To ensure consistency, the Committee conducted structured hearings. In particular, it evaluated each proposal against defined criteria, including demand clarity, feasibility, technical validity, and social impact .
Examination of the Wireless Certification Framework
Beyond spectrum allocation, the draft report also examines the “state of the licensing system for radio stations and certification systems for radio equipment” .
In parallel with spectrum reform, this review addresses how Japan administers conformity assessment for radio equipment. Therefore, manufacturers and importers should monitor potential adjustments to procedural or certification requirements once the consultation concludes.
Furthermore, the public consultation guidelines clearly outline submission methods, documentation formats, and procedural rules . This structured approach ensures transparency throughout the decision-making process.
Public Consultation and Next Steps
Stakeholders may submit comments through:
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The e-Gov online system
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Email submission
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Postal submission
All comments must arrive by March 19, 2026 . Afterward, the Council will consolidate feedback and finalize its recommendations before initiating any necessary regulatory measures.
Regulatory Implications for Market Access
Taken together, the Japan 900 MHz reform introduces two interconnected regulatory tracks. First, authorities are reconsidering spectrum allocation within the 890–900 MHz and 928–945 MHz bands. Second, they are reviewing elements of the wireless certification framework.
As a result, companies operating devices in or near these frequency ranges should carefully monitor developments. In particular, stakeholders should assess how future allocation decisions or certification updates could influence product planning, conformity strategies, and market entry timelines.
For organizations navigating evolving wireless regulations, our Regulatory Intelligence Service provides ongoing monitoring of spectrum policy and certification reforms:
https://entirety.biz/services/regulatoryintelligence/
Impact Assessment
Technical Standards? ✅ Yes
Type Approval & Market Access? ✅ Yes
Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? ✅ Yes
Spectrum Management? ✅ Yes