The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) officially released supplementary guidance on corporate M&A (mergers and acquisitions) on July 30, 2026. The document clarifies that non-price factors can be considered when evaluating acquisition proposals, provided that impacts on corporate value can be specifically explained to shareholders.

The supplementary document complements METI's "Guidelines for Corporate Acquisitions" established in 2023, with guidance presented in Q&A format. The guidelines emphasize that price remains an important factor while also recognizing other considerations, creating a balanced policy framework.

The supplementary guidance allows Japanese companies to consider factors such as employee and business partner interests, as well as economic security in M&A decisions, enabling more multifaceted assessment of acquisition proposals.