Japan Post receives recommendation from Fair Trade Commission regarding contracts with freelancers
The Japan Fair Trade Commission has issued a recommendation to Japan Post, urging the company to make improvements after it failed to comply with legally mandated obligations when contracting with freelance sole proprietors. This action was taken in accordance with the "Freelance Act," which came into effect in November 2024.
The Freelance Act requires companies to clearly communicate terms such as job descriptions and compensation amounts in writing or via email when outsourcing work to sole proprietors. Additionally, as a general rule, payment for services must be made within 60 days from the date the deliverables are received.
According to the investigation, it was found that Japan Post had failed to sufficiently explain contract terms to some freelancers and had delayed compensation payments. With freelancers playing active roles in a wide range of fields, including delivery and production, companies are being called upon to implement more appropriate contract management.
Japan Post has stated that it takes this recommendation seriously and will review its internal management systems. Moving forward, the company intends to ensure that all departments working with freelancers strictly adhere to proper, legally compliant contracting procedures.
The Freelance Act is an important law designed to protect sole proprietors who are in a vulnerable position. This news serves as a reminder of the importance for companies to follow the rules when collaborating with freelancers.