Sponsored By

Loosened Controls

Japan's Trade Ministry is moving to simplify the export control procedures it had placed on Sony's Playstation 2 console. The ministry had first enacted export controls i...

Quang Hong, Blogger

April 18, 2000

1 Min Read
Game Developer logo in a gray background | Game Developer

Japan's Trade Ministry is moving to simplify the export control procedures it had placed on Sony's Playstation 2 console. The ministry had first enacted export controls in early March due to encryption technology used by the system, demanding that Sony obtain a special permit to export to the United States and Europe. The ministry imposed further sanctions in April because it believed that the Playstation 2's components could be adapted to weapons systems. The restrictions would have forced Sony to get a license for any export of more than one unit, as Japanese export law requires such licenses for any export of possible military technology valued at more than $472. Japan's Trade Ministry revised its procedure after reclassifying the PS2 as a general purpose product.

About the Author

Quang Hong

Blogger

Quang Hong is the Features Editor of Gamasutra.com.

Daily news, dev blogs, and stories from Game Developer straight to your inbox

You May Also Like