News Japan to prohibit farmland purchases by foreigners with short-term stays

Japan's farm ministry announced that foreigners with visas nearing expiration will be prohibited from purchasing farmland. The move aims to prevent potential misuse as agricultural land values rise. Starting 1 April (no joke!), an amendment to the enforcement regulation of the Cropland Act will require foreign buyers to disclose the remaining validity of their visas when acquiring farmland. The decision follows concerns from ruling party lawmakers that an increasing number of foreign-linked entities acquiring farmland could lead to its use for unintended purposes.

Farmland acquirers are basically required to engage in farming for at least 150 days a year, with municipal agricultural committees responsible for deciding whether to approve the acquisitions. In September 2023, the ministry began requiring foreign individuals and companies to report their nationalities when applying to acquire land. Individuals were also required to report their visa status but not the number of days remaining until expiration. Under the new system, foreigners will not be allowed to acquire farmland if their visas are set to expire soon and there are no prospects for renewal. Regardless of nationality, those set to move far away from the farmland will also be barred from acquiring it.

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The ministry reported that foreign individuals residing in Japan and companies with foreign shareholders holding voting rights acquired 154 hectares of farmland in 2022 and 90 hectares in 2023. Between 2017 and 2023, foreign entities outside Japan purchased approximately 73 hectares of farmland across six prefectures.