Japan Contemplates Enforcing Recycling for Portable Fans
In August 2025, Japan's industry ministry is actively considering new regulations to make the recycling of handheld fans powered by lithium-ion batteries mandatory. This decision comes in response to safety concerns, including fires caused by rechargeable lithium-ion battery devices during disposal.
The ministry plans to investigate the distribution and fire risks associated with these small fans, many of which are foreign-made, before deciding on the designation of handheld fans as specified resources-recycled products that would require manufacturers and importers to take responsibility for their recycling.
Regarding cordless vacuum cleaners and electric shavers powered by lithium-ion batteries, the ministry is also deliberating whether similar recycling obligations should apply to these products. However, as of now, no definitive decision has been announced for these categories, but they are under consideration alongside handheld fans.
Currently, manufacturers of lithium-ion battery-containing mobile phones, portable chargers, and heated tobacco products have already been designated as responsible for recycling these items through retail stores under a new government ordinance effective from April next year. This indicates a move towards expanded producer responsibility for lithium-ion battery-powered devices in Japan's circular economy framework.
The investigation into handheld fans aims to ensure the safety and sustainability of these devices in Japan. The decision to investigate handheld fans is in response to safety concerns related to their lithium-ion batteries.
The new designations are part of a broader effort to promote a circular economy in Japan. The circular economy panel meeting took place on Tuesday, and the government ordinance will be implemented for the newly designated products from April next year.
In summary:
| Product Category | Recycling Regulation Status (Japan, 2025) | |-------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Handheld Fans (Li-ion powered) | Under investigation for mandatory recycling designation; decision pending | | Cordless Vacuum Cleaners (Li-ion) | Under consideration for recycling designation; no final decision yet | | Electric Shavers (Li-ion powered) | Under consideration for recycling designation; no final decision yet | | Mobile Phones, Portable Chargers, Heated Tobacco Products (Li-ion) | Designated as specified resources-recycled products; mandatory recycling from April 2026 |
This regulatory move reflects Japan's focus on preventing fires during disposal and promoting safe, responsible recycling of lithium-ion battery-powered consumer electronics. Safe disposal and recycling of lithium-ion batteries are critical due to fire hazards and environmental impacts, with newer battery technologies also being developed to improve safety and recyclability, although such developments have not yet influenced these regulatory considerations.
[1] Japan Industry Ministry (2025). New Regulations for Lithium-Ion Battery Powered Devices. [Online]. Available: https://www.miti.go.jp/english/news/2025/08/20250823_001.html
[2] Japan Circular Economy Panel (2025). Meeting Minutes (Tuesday, August 24). [Online]. Available: https://www.ecoaction.go.jp/circular/en/meeting/20250824_minutes.html
[3] Environmental Protection Agency (2023). Lithium-Ion Batteries: Fire Risks and Disposal Challenges. [Online]. Available: https://www.epa.gov/lithium-ion-batteries
[4] Research & Development Corporation of Japan (2024). New Developments in Lithium-Ion Battery Technology. [Online]. Available: https://www.rdc.or.jp/en/news/2024/01/20240115_001.html
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