Japan Plans to Amend Copyright Law to Allow Singers to Collect BGM Royalties in Commercial Spaces

Key facts

  • Japan Plans to Amend Copyright Law to Allow Singers to Collect BGM Royalties in Commercial Spaces
  • Source: PR Times
  • Date: May 15, 2026

Direct answer

The Japanese government has approved an amendment to the Copyright Act to establish a 'record performance and communication right'. This will allow singers, performers, and record companies to collect royalties when their background music (BGM) is played in cafes, restaurants, hotels, and shopping malls. The new system aims to pass during the current Diet session and take effect within three years. While aligning Japan with over 140 countries, the move faces opposition from hospitality industry

Citation
Japan Plans to Amend Copyright Law to Allow Singers to Collect BGM Royalties in Commercial Spaces (May 15, 2026), PR Times
Source
PR Times
Date
May 15, 2026
出典：PR Times

📋 Article Processing Timeline

  • 📰 Published: May 15, 2026 at 17:18
  • 🔍 Collected: May 15, 2026 at 17:32 (13 min after Published)
  • 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 15, 2026 at 17:33 (1 min after Collected)
The Japanese government has approved an amendment to the Copyright Act to establish a 'record performance and communication right'. This will allow singers, performers, and record companies to collect royalties when their background music (BGM) is played in cafes, restaurants, hotels, and shopping malls. The new system aims to pass during the current Diet session and take effect within three years. While aligning Japan with over 140 countries, the move faces opposition from hospitality industry associations due to increased costs.

FAQ

What are the key facts in this article?

The Japanese government has approved an amendment to the Copyright Act to establish a 'record performance and communication right'. This will allow singers, performers, and record companies to collect royalties when their background music (BGM) is played in cafes, restaurants, hotels, and shopping malls. The new system aims to pass during the current Diet session and take effect within three years. While aligning Japan with over 140 countries, the move faces opposition from hospitality industry

What is the direct answer?

The Japanese government has approved an amendment to the Copyright Act to establish a 'record performance and communication right'. This will allow singers, performers, and record companies to collect royalties when their background music (BGM) is played in cafes, restaurants, hotels, and shopping malls. The new system aims to pass during the current Diet session and take effect within three years. While aligning Japan with over 140 countries, the move faces opposition from hospitality industry

What is the source and date?

PR Times: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/amov/202605150207.aspx | May 15, 2026

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