Japan moves to legally ban implantation of gene-edited human embryos

A Japanese government expert panel has agreed to legally prohibit and penalize research or medical practices that genetically modify human embryos for implantation into humans or animals with the intention of producing babies.

The policy, discussed by a joint panel of the health and science ministries and the Children and Families Agency, seeks to formally restrict the birth of gene-edited babies. The government plans to submit a relevant bill to the ordinary Diet session in 2026, Kyodo reports.

While existing guidelines already forbid returning gene-edited embryos to a human uterus, there are currently no penalties for violations. The panel cited concerns over the potential creation of “designer babies,” in which people could select preferred traits such as height or intelligence. Many European countries have already implemented legally enforceable regulations in this area.

The joint panel noted that, given the current limited knowledge on the clinical application of gene-edited embryos, it is impossible to fully assess technical limitations and risks. Citing fears that unexpected genetic functions could emerge and be passed on to future generations, it concluded that “legal regulation is necessary” to ensure the effectiveness of existing guidelines.

The government is considering criminal penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment or fines of up to 10 million yen ($64,000) for anyone who implants gene-edited embryos into a human or animal uterus. Under proposed guidelines, research involving gene-edited embryos would require notification to the government and mandatory record-keeping. Genetic modification of sperm or eggs, as well as the use of conventional genetic recombination technologies, would also fall under regulatory oversight.

However, the panel emphasized that legal regulation should not impede the advancement of basic research, stressing the importance of continued discussion with the possibility of permitting clinical applications in the future.

The move follows international controversy over the birth of genetically edited twins in China in 2018, which sparked a global ethical debate. In 2019, a panel of Japan’s Cabinet Office proposed that relevant ministries consider legislation to regulate the controversial technology.

By Vafa Guliyeva