November 7, 2025 Holding of a Study Group Meeting on the Protection of International Submarine Cables (hereinafter the "Study Group Meeting")

　The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) will hold the Study Group Meeting to discuss protective measures for international submarine cables and other issues.

Note: The published materials are in Japanese only.

1. Purpose

　Given that Japan relies primarily on international submarine cables for its international communications, these cables are crucial infrastructure for maintaining the country’s economic and social activities. Their importance continues to grow, as they also play a pivotal role in promoting AI utilization. Meanwhile, the number of incidents damaging international submarine cables around Japan is expected to rise, and the environment surrounding these cables is changing, including shifts in ownership and advances in technology. To ensure the autonomy of Japan’s international submarine cables, it is necessary to strengthen the protection system and implement multifaceted measures.
　Under these circumstances, we will consider measures to protect international submarine cables.

2. Proposed agenda items for immediate consideration

(1) Measures to strengthen the protection system for international submarine cables and ensure their autonomy
(2) Political measures to support the implementation of the measures in (1) above
(3) Other

3. Schedule

　The first meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, and subsequent meetings will be held thereafter. The report will be compiled in the summer of 2026.