News
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's Cabinet on Jan. 31, 2012 agreed on a bill to partially revise the Customs Tariff Act and other regulations. Prepared by the Ministry of Finance （MOF）, the bill, which contains the introduction of a Japanese version of the ''24-Hour Rule,'' was submitted to the Diet on the same day.
The introduction of the 24-Hour Rule in Japan is included in the actions to take to enhance the nation's border security crackdowns, described as introducing a system under which detailed information on seaborne import containers can be obtained earlier in a computerized format （by revising the existing system under which cargo information must be submitted in advance）.
When the system is implemented in Japan, shipping companies and other cargo transporters （non-vessel-operating common carriers, or NVOCCs） would be required to submit detailed information on seaborne containers they carry to Japan. More specifically, shipping lines would be demanded to present cargo information taken from master bills of lading （B/Ls）, and NVOCCs, information from house B/Ls.
They will need to submit such information at least 24 hours in advance to when mainline vessels leave ports of origin, to the customs houses of ports of destination in an computerized format （via the Nippon Automated Cargo and Port Consolidated System, or NACCS）.
It is expected the Diet will enact the bill by the end of March. However, the Japanese version of the 24-Hour Rule will take effect after two years or less of preparation after a new law is promulgated, as it is necessary to hold discussions and make arrangements with relevant parties and to set a get-acquainted period.
