Tokyo, Jan. 15 (Jiji Press)–New Japan Fair Trade Commission Secretary-General Shuichi Sugahisa on Wednesday expressed an eagerness to promote competition in the digital field.

“The economic environment is changing greatly. In order to promote free and fair competition, it is necessary to collect opinions from various corners to administer laws,” Sugahisa told a press conference.

He took office as administrative head of the antitrust watchdog the same day.

Sugahisa said the FTC will consider strengthening regulations on information technology giants “if any problems are detected with their business practices” through a digital advertising market survey to be carried out by the government shortly.

On a business integration plan between Yahoo Japan Corp.’s parent, Z Holdings Corp. <4689>, and free messaging app provider Line Corp. <3938>, Sugahisa said the commission will conduct screenings according to guidelines revised last year.

His predecessor, Akinori Yamada, raised alarm over freelance contracts for entertainers and athletes in Japan during his term.

Yamada said it is important to attract interest in the FTC with issues in the field of entertainment in order to deepen public understanding of the commission.