According to Japanese media outlet Automaton Media, SIE download-specific games sold in Japanese PS stores can also choose to use the IARC universal rating in addition to the existing CERO rating, which has been officially put into use since March 9.
In Japan, console games need to pass the CERO rating review and determine the rating before they can be listed, and the review process is mainly carried out in Japan, and a certain review fee is required. The IARC imported by the SIE is a rating organization with overseas bases, and the only object of review is to download special games and APPS, the review process is simple and free, and it is easier to apply than CERO.
The Nintendo eShop, Microsoft's Microsoft Store, and PS stores outside of Japan have already imported IARC ratings, while Japan has always only recognized THE CERO rating, and this time it has finally changed. That is to say, in the future, except for special circumstances (works suitable for people over 18 years old must still be rated by CERO before they can be sold), the downloaded version of the special game can be sold in the Japanese service PS store without cumbersome CERO review.
SIE said that the introduction of IARC ratings for Nippon Service is to distribute download-specific works more efficiently and provide opportunities for partners in Japan and abroad to expand their business.