meta_id 3020294

On March 31, 2026, Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA) announced the banking industry's commitment to complete digitisation of bills and cheques in alignment with government policy. The banking sector has established a voluntary action plan targeting zero bill and cheque exchanges at electronic clearing houses by the end of fiscal year 2026, with the complete cessation of bill and cheque exchanges at electronic clearing houses commencing from the beginning of fiscal year 2027. The transition from paper-based bills and cheques to electronic payment services—including electronic record debt (such as Densai) and internet banking transfers—is expected to deliver significant benefits. These include cost reduction, decreased administrative burden, and reduced operational risk across the financial system and participating industries. The banking industry, working in coordination with government and the broader industrial sector, is implementing this comprehensive transition. The National Association of Bankers (全国銀行協会) has established a dedicated website providing detailed information on the full digitisation initiative. Financial institutions and industry participants are encouraged to consult their transacting financial institutions for specific implementation guidance and timelines. The FSA has published awareness materials, including a notice flyer distributed in September 2025 titled "Discontinuation of Paper Bills and Cheques Usage," to inform stakeholders of this significant shift in Japan's payment infrastructure. Further details are available on the National Association of Bankers' dedicated website and through direct consultation with participating financial institutions.