Japan Actors Union issues guidelines on generative AI use of voice performances

The Japan Actors Union has announced guidelines on the unauthorised use of generative AI to replicate voice performances. GamesIndustry.biz reported the news on 20 October 2026, citing Automaton. The framework recommends getting consent at every stage of generative AI use, starting before any model is trained on an actor's performance.

If generative AI replicates a performance, the guidelines say it must be treated as a new performance. That means additional royalties or compensation for the actors involved. For deceased actors, a voice may only be replicated if the actor gave permission during their lifetime. Developers or AI companies must also get consent from the family and the affiliated agency or company, and pay royalties.

The guidance also covers automatic translation by generative AI into other languages. According to the report, such translation must preserve the artistic integrity of the original performance. It cannot be used overseas without permission.

These are union guidelines, not law. The union said it will work to establish them as industry-wide rules and will press the government to legislate protections for voice rights. Studios and publishers that use voice actors in Japan, or that use generative AI for voice and localisation, may want to check their contracts and pipelines against the consent and compensation points.

GamesIndustry.biz gave some context. Research last year showed that over half of Japanese developers use generative AI in development. In the US, SAG-AFTRA members approved the 2025 Interactive Media Video Game Agreement after an 11-month strike, and it includes consent and disclosure requirements for AI digital replicas. The outlet also noted that UKIE announced a partnership with law firm Sheridans the day before on an AI Compliance and Accreditation Service for UK studios.