TOKYO – This week, the Japanese government announced it would soon ease restrictions that kept many gasoline stations from expanding to electric vehicle charging terminals, the Nikkei Asian Review reports. The move would revitalize the distribution network and make driving alternative fuel vehicles more attractive.

The country’s fire-safety laws has strict rules about where gas stations can put EV chargers—currently around 10 meters from a gas pump, which means small stations would have few options. However, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will study the standards to allow gas stations to have charging terminals closer to fuel pumps. A pilot program will likely happen first to see monitor safety. A study group with retailers will look into the change, with the aim of removing such restrictions as soon as fiscal 2019.

The same law restricts gas stations from operating only car washes and a few other specific businesses close to gasoline pumps. The ministry will soon allow gas stations to open supermarkets, convenience stores and package delivery stores in the same area. Currently, all gasoline stations, including self-serve ones, must have one worker on site all the time. The ministry might allow self-serve stations to dispense with that requirement.

Japan, along with China and European countries, favors electric automobiles. A Convenience Matters podcast tackled the issue of EV in the United States.