Investigation Officer – Antimonopoly

Investigation Officer – Antimonopoly at the Japan Fair Trade Commission

The Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC / 公正取引委員会), Japan's competition authority located in Kasumigaseki, Tokyo, is recruiting an investigation officer for its Investigation Bureau. The JFTC enforces the Antimonopoly Act (独占禁止法 / Dokusen Kinshi-hō) and plays a critical role in maintaining fair and free competition in the Japanese economy.

About the Role

As an Investigation Officer, you will conduct investigations into suspected violations of the Antimonopoly Act (独占禁止法), including cartels, bid-rigging (談合 / dangō), abuse of dominant position, and unfair trade practices. You will also review merger notifications and conduct economic analysis of market concentration. The role involves coordinating with international competition authorities on cross-border cases.

Based in the Kasumigaseki government district, you will work in a dedicated investigation team with access to the JFTC's administrative investigation powers. Cases may lead to cease-and-desist orders, surcharge payment orders, and in serious cases, criminal referrals to the Prosecutor's Office.

Focus Areas

• Cartel and bid-rigging (談合) investigations under the Antimonopoly Act (独占禁止法)
• Merger control review and market analysis
• Abuse of dominant position and unfair trade practice enforcement
• Leniency programme administration
• International cooperation with competition authorities (ICN, bilateral agreements)

• Conduct investigations into suspected Antimonopoly Act violations
• Gather and analyse evidence, interview witnesses, and prepare investigation reports
• Review merger notifications and conduct competitive impact assessments
• Draft cease-and-desist orders and surcharge payment orders
• Administer leniency applications and coordinate dawn raids
• Cooperate with international competition authorities on cross-border matters
• Contribute to guidelines and policy development on emerging competition issues

• Registered bengoshi (弁護士) with the JFBA, or law degree with relevant investigation experience
• 4-7 years of experience in competition law, regulatory enforcement, or economic regulation
• Strong knowledge of the Antimonopoly Act (独占禁止法) and related guidelines
• Experience in conducting investigations, legal analysis, or competition litigation
• Analytical skills including market definition and economic assessment capabilities
• Working-level English for international cooperation
• Understanding of digital platform regulation and data economy competition issues