TITLE: Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Updates Integrated Disclosure Guidance
BODY:
On May 12, 2026, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) updated its FAQ on Integrated and Coordinated Disclosure of Business Reports and Annual Securities Reports (Institutional Framework). The update addresses the institutional framework allowing companies to prepare a single document satisfying requirements under both the Companies Act and the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act, which can be disclosed prior to shareholders' meetings.
METI first compiled guidance on coordinated disclosure in 2021 to facilitate this integrated approach. Since then, amendments to the Companies Act, the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act, and related legislation have been introduced. Additionally, disclosure practices have evolved, with an increasing number of companies submitting annual securities reports before shareholders' meetings and some adjusting record dates to enable integrated disclosure. The updated FAQ reflects these legislative changes and emerging market practices.
The revised guidance aims to support companies considering integrated and coordinated disclosure as a means of enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in preparing disclosure documents. METI developed the update in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice, the Financial Services Agency, and other relevant organisations. The guidance is intended to facilitate constructive dialogue between companies and investors by enabling more effective and efficient disclosure practices.
The updated FAQ is available on METI's website in Japanese format.
**Reference:**
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (May 12, 2026). FAQ on Integrated and Coordinated Disclosure of Business Reports, etc., and Annual Securities Reports (Institutional Framework) Updated. https://www.meti.go.jp/