"フリーランス法違反で初の行政指導　アニメ制作など45社," 28 March 2025

[Unofficial description by Business & Human Rights Resource Centre]

A survey of 77 companies across four industries - animation production, game software, relaxation, and fitness clubs - found that 45 companies, more than half of the targeted companies, had violated or were suspected of violating the Freelance Protection Law.

The violations identified this time included failure to clearly specify terms and conditions, as well as failure to pay remuneration by the due date—defined as within 60 days of work completion. A total of 45 companies received administrative guidance to improve their ordering practices and address other related issues.

The Freelance Protection Law, which came into effect in November 2024, requires that key transaction terms—such as the scope of work and amount of remuneration—be clearly stated in writing or by email. It also mandates that payment be made within 60 days of the completion of the work. For contracts lasting one month or longer, the law prohibits seven unfair practices, including setting unreasonably low remuneration and refusing to accept deliverables.