February 13, 2026, Japan, through the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC), issued a Partial Amendment to the Ordinance for Enforcement of the Radio Act G/TBT/N/JPN/899. This notification is a partial amendment, referenced as G/TBT/N/JPN/840.
This amendment provides frequency relevance for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) systems. In relation to this change, the Japanese government has opened the floor for relevant parties to provide input so that this regulation will be perfect when implemented.
Previously, G/TBT/N/JPN/840 was released in October 2024. Two years later, a new amendment is needed to adjust the frequency relevance for TPMS and RKE systems.
Why is Frequency Relevance Needed for TPMS and RKE Systems?
Before this amendment, Japan used a frequency of 315 MHz for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems and Remote Keyless Entry systems. The new regulation provides an expanded frequency range of 433.05 – 434.79 MHz.
The change in frequency relevance for TPMS and RKE systems is not without reason. MIC strives to harmonize global standards, provide good wave characteristics, and optimize technical aspects.
1. Harmonization of global standards
This frequency change is considered ideal for harmonization with global standards and improved operational efficiency. By switching to 433 MHz, Japan is aligning itself with what is commonly used in Europe, the United States, and other regions.
2. Good wave characteristics
The 433 MHz frequency, part of the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) band, is considered to have good penetration capabilities through obstacles while remaining energy efficient. This makes it ideal for low-power short-range communication used in TPMS and RKE.
3. Technical optimization
The allocation of this new frequency is also an effort by the MIC to avoid interference with other radio services. Additionally, Japanese car manufacturers will no longer need to produce two separate devices for domestic and global use. This will help reduce production costs and logistical complexity.
In addition to frequency relevance for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems and Remote Keyless Entry systems, the new Regulation for Radio Equipment and Relevant Public Notice will also eliminate the requirements previously imposed on the equipment enclosure.
Open Public Comments
On this occasion, MIC is opening up opportunities for various related parties to provide their comments. This is, of course, expected to improve the regulations that are planned to be implemented in June 2026.
All academic comments related to frequency relevance for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems and Remote Keyless Entry systems can be submitted until April 14, 2026. You can send your comments to enquiry@mofa.go.jp.
The partial amendment document is available here:
Impact for Japan Type Approval
The new standards for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems and Remote Keyless Entry systems at frequencies of 433.05 – 434.79 MHz will certainly have an impact on Japan type approval. The impact will definitely be felt in everything related to certification applications for TPMS and RKE system devices, which will require compliance with the new standards.
This means that every manufacturer, importer, and distributor wishing to market these devices in the Japanese market must use these standards as a reference. Regulatory updates often change testing mechanisms, so it is important to stay abreast of regulatory changes.