APOC CEO Shunsuke Saito Appointed as Legal Regulation Committee Member of the Japan International Influencer Association

APOC (Headquarters: Itabashi-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Shunsuke Saito) is pleased to announce that our CEO, Shunsuke Saito, has been appointed as a member of the Legal Regulation Committee of the Japan International Influencer Association (Representative Director: Hiroki Shishido). APOC has developed operational procedures to ensure clean and compliant handling of visa status and legal matters in PR support utilizing foreign influencers. With this appointment, we will work alongside the Japan International Influencer Association to promote initiatives for the healthy development of the entire industry.

■ About the Japan International Influencer Association
The Japan International Influencer Association collaborates with companies and local governments to create an environment where both foreign residents in Japan and international influencers can thrive. The organization engages in activities such as cultural exchange, multicultural coexistence, regional revitalization, tourism, and information dissemination support for industries.

■ Background of the Appointment
APOC has supported numerous PR initiatives for domestic businesses targeting inbound and resident foreigners through the operation of the influencer PR platform "UZU Ads" and as an agency. However, PR utilizing foreign influencers is an area that requires careful verification and operation regarding legal aspects such as visa status, residence cards, and payment processing. APOC views this as a critical issue in the industry and has established operations that comply with laws and regulations, incorporating expert advice to clarify issues related to residence cards and legal matters. Given the alignment between APOC's internal rules and the association's vision for industry health, CEO Shunsuke Saito has been appointed to the committee.

■ Alignment with the Association
APOC and the Japan International Influencer Association share a common vision regarding legal compliance and operational rules for foreign influencer utilization. We share recognition of points that require future review and improvement, including:
- Project operations based on the verification of visa status and residence cards.
- Thorough compliance in payment and contracting.
- Transparent operational systems for both businesses and influencers.
- Updating industry rules based on institutional changes and social demands.

■ APOC's Stance
Regardless of participation in association activities, APOC's basic policy is to prioritize legal compliance and transparent operations in PR support using foreign influencers. We will continue to provide an environment where both businesses and influencers can work with peace of mind.

■ Comment from Shunsuke Saito, CEO of APOC
I am deeply honored to be appointed as a member of the Legal Regulation Committee. APOC has always believed that leaving legal issues regarding visa status and residence cards ambiguous is a critical issue affecting industry trust. Through this role, I am committed to contributing to the creation of sound and sustainable rules for the growing market of foreign influencer PR.