Fluorocarbons Recovery and Destruction Law (FRDL): Mandates recovery and destruction of fluorocarbons, including HFCs, and promotes HFOs as alternatives.

Kigali Amendment: Ratified in 2018, requiring a phasedown of HFCs (40% reduction by 2029 vs. 2011–2013 baseline).

Chemical Substances Control Law (CSCL): Regulates HFOs as “Class I Specified Chemical Substances” if deemed hazardous.

a. HFC Phasedown & HFO Promotion

• HFC Quotas: Annual production/import quotas for HFCs, decreasing by 4.2% yearly (2024–2029).

• HFO Incentives: Tax breaks and subsidies for industries adopting HFOs (e.g., automotive AC, heat pumps).

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b. Approved HFO Uses

• HFO-1234yf: Approved for automotive AC (aligned with EU MAC Directive standards).

• HFO-1234ze: Used in foam blowing and industrial refrigeration.

• HFO-1336mzz: Approved for electronics manufacturing cooling.

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c. Safety & Labeling

• Flammability Classification: Follows JIS B 8609 (similar to ASHRAE 34), classifying most HFOs as A2L.

  • Requires leak detection and ventilation in confined spaces.

• Labeling: Containers must display GWP, flammability warnings (per JIS standards), and recovery instructions.

• Transport Rules: Classified as hazardous materials under Japan Fire Service Act (UN3163 for HFO-1234yf).

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d. Sector-Specific Rules

• Automotive: New vehicles must use refrigerants with GWP < 150 (2023 onward), favoring HFO-1234yf.

• Refrigeration: Ban on HFCs with GWP ≥ 150 in new commercial systems (2025).

• Electronics: Mandatory use of low-GWP refrigerants (e.g., HFO-1336mzz) in semiconductor manufacturing.

• FRDL Registration: Importers must register with the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) and report HFC/HFO volumes.

• Recovery & Recycling:

  • Technicians must recover ≥90% of fluorocarbons during equipment servicing.

  • Use certified recovery machines (JIS B 8020 compliant).

• Labeling: Containers must include:

  • GWP value (e.g., HFO-1234yf: GWP = 4).

  • Japanese safety warnings (flammability, handling instructions).

• Training: Technicians require Fluorocarbons Handling License (Category 1–3, based on application).

• 2023 FRDL Amendments: Stricter penalties for illegal HFC imports and mandatory HFO adoption timelines for refrigeration.

• Green Growth Strategy: Targets 50% HFC emission cuts by 2030, prioritizing HFOs in data centers and EVs.

• METI Subsidies: Grants for SMEs transitioning to HFO-based refrigeration systems.

• Fines: Up to ¥1 million (~$6,800) for illegal HFC/HFO imports or improper recovery.

• Equipment Seizure: Non-compliant products (e.g., unlabeled HFOs) can be confiscated.

• License Suspension: Revocation of fluorocarbon handling licenses for repeat violations.