The Japanese government has been pursuing amendments to related laws since the 21st century to enhance the efficiency of weather forecasting operations. Reflecting the final recommendations of the Administrative Reform Commission, restructuring the role and functions of the Meteorological Agency and easing regulations on private weather businesses were discussed.

First, weather information that the Meteorological Agency should provide at the national level is broadly categorized into four areas. First, disaster prevention weather information to protect the lives and property of citizens. This is the core mission and top priority of the Meteorological Agency. Second, basic weather information necessary for the formulation of major national policies such as agriculture, water resource management, and environmental policies. Third, providing weather observation and forecasting information in accordance with international agreements. This is an international obligation related to the operation of a global weather observation network. Fourth, providing weather information in specialized areas that only the Meteorological Agency can perform, such as space weather forecasting and weather technology development.

Next, easing regulations on private weather businesses was discussed. At the time, the Meteorological Agency was restricting the activities of private weather businesses, but there was criticism that it was necessary to rationally improve regulations and utilize the capabilities of the private sector. In particular, key issues included improving the weather instrument inspection system and easing the permitting criteria for weather observation and forecasting.

Various experts offered diverse opinions on this matter. Some argued that regulations should be significantly reduced to promote private weather businesses. However, others countered that the Meteorological Agency should have a certain level of management and supervision authority for the public good. In particular, the issue of how to set the level of private weather business involvement in disaster prevention weather information or information needed for national policies emerged.

After comprehensively examining the role of national weather agencies and the division of roles with the private sector, the government prepared an interim report outlining the basic direction of national weather operations for the next 10 years. This report, centered on the principle of prioritizing the protection of citizens' lives and the formulation of national policies, proposes to gradually expand the activity domains of private weather businesses while reflecting technological advancements.

Ultimately, this discussion can be evaluated as having explored ways to maximize the protection of public safety and interests while enhancing the competitiveness of the weather-related industry and leveraging the creativity and expertise of the private sector.