Feb 27 • 06:30 UTC 🇯🇵 Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

Chubu Electric Wire Fraud Law Violation: Incomplete Transaction Terms and Delayed Payments for 39 Individuals

Chubu Electric has been found in violation of freelance law by the Japan Fair Trade Commission for failing to provide clear transaction terms and delaying payments for 39 freelance workers.

Chubu Electric was determined to have violated freelance law by the Japan Fair Trade Commission, which announced on the 27th that the company did not properly disclose transaction terms to 39 freelance workers. Between November 2024 and September 2025, despite entering contracts with these freelancers, the company failed to specify essential terms such as payment deadlines and the nature of the work, leading to a recommendation for measures to prevent future occurrences. The violations were noted following contracts that cited ambiguous conditions, such as unspecified venues for meetings and events.

Among the 39 individuals affected, it was reported that 14 experienced delays in payment, although the total amounts owed were not specified. The affected workers included experts such as university professors, lawyers, and physicians, who were involved in various capacities within the company, including advisory roles and technical support. The recommendation from the Fair Trade Commission seeks to ensure that companies adhere to regulations that safeguard freelance workers' rights in Japan's evolving labor landscape.

This case raises important concerns about the treatment of freelance workers in Japan, especially in light of the recent implementation of the freelance law designed to protect independent contractors. It highlights the need for companies to comply with these regulations, as violations can lead to significant reputational damage and loss of trust among freelance professionals who are becoming an increasingly vital part of the workforce. The situation reflects broader trends in the labor market, where worker rights and protections are receiving heightened attention within the regulatory framework.

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