Financial Crime World

Japan Steps Up International Cooperation to Combat Financial Crimes

Strengthening Stance Against Transnational Crimes

In a bid to combat transnational crimes more effectively, Japan is enhancing its international cooperation with law enforcement agencies worldwide. The National Police Agency (NPA) has been actively working with INTERPOL, serving as Japan’s National Central Bureau for the organization.

Key Roles in INTERPOL

Many NPA officers have taken on key roles in managing INTERPOL, including:

  • Elected delegates to the Executive Committee
  • Core members of various working groups

Facilitating International Investigative Cooperation

To facilitate more efficient international investigative cooperation, Japan is promoting the conclusion of Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties and Agreements (MLAT/MLAA) with its international partners. To date, Japan has concluded MLATs/MLAAs with:

  • The US
  • South Korea
  • China
  • Hong Kong
  • The EU
  • Russia

Enhancing Cooperation with the US

In 2014, an agreement was signed between the Japanese government and the US government on enhancing cooperation in preventing and combating serious crime. This agreement allows for:

  • The exchange of fingerprint and biographic data of suspected criminals between the two countries to bolster counter-terrorism and law enforcement efforts.

Strengthening Ties with Europol

Japan has also strengthened its ties with Europol, signing a Working Arrangement in 2019 that enables the NPA to second a liaison officer to the organization. This arrangement facilitates:

  • Cooperation between the NPA and Europol
  • Deepening bilateral relationships with EU member states.

Participating in Regional and International Forums

In addition to these initiatives, Japan is actively participating in various regional and international forums aimed at combating transnational crimes, including:

  • The First ASEAN Plus Three Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC+3)
  • G7 Interior Ministers’ Meeting
  • G7 Security Ministers’ Meetings
  • G7 Roma-Lyon Group

Demonstrating Commitment to Combating Financial Crimes

These international cooperation efforts demonstrate Japan’s commitment to combating financial crimes and strengthening its relationships with law enforcement agencies around the world.