NHK




 

The Japanese government plans to ask buyers of forested land to register their nationalities, starting next April. The move is aimed at keeping track of foreign property ownership across the nation.

The Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Ministry plans to announce the new rule as early as next week.

Corporate entities that acquire forested areas will be required to list the nationality of their representative.

Owners with a foreign address will need to register their place of contact in Japan. Buyers will also be asked to report the purpose of the acquisition.

The government is carrying out a wholesale review of policies for foreign nationals, with basic ideas to be mapped out by around January.

Officials say some measures will be introduced quickly if necessary.