June 16, 2021

A bill aimed at allowing private ownership of space resources was enacted at the House of Councilors plenary session on June 15 by majority vote. The Japanese Communist Party voted against the bill.

On the previous day at a meeting of the House Cabinet committee discussing the bill, JCP lawmaker Tamura Tomoko pointed out that while international rules have yet to be formulated, the introduction of a domestic law enabling private businesses to claim ownership of space resources will lead to the promotion of a space competition on a first-come-first-served basis. She stressed the need to create an international framework for the use of space resources based on consent from all countries, including developing countries.

Tamura also pointed out that it is highly likely that with the introduction of Japan’s new law, public disclosure of scientific investigation results required by the Outer Space Treaty will face a serious setback.

In addition, the JCP lawmaker pointed out that the bill is linked to the government intent to join in the U.S.-led Artemis project which seeks to explore the moon extensively. She said that the promotion of a space policy integrated with the U.S. departs from the previously agreed upon peaceful use of outer space and thus is unacceptable.

Past related article:
> JCP Shiokawa calls for international rulemaking, not Artemis pact, to deal with space resources [June 11, 2021]