In a bid to enhance national security and foster local technological advancement, Japan has unveiled a revised artificial intelligence (AI) strategy. This updated plan, sanctioned on July 14, is a swift follow-up to the original strategy introduced merely six months prior. The quick succession highlights the fast-paced evolution of AI technologies and the mounting cybersecurity challenges they pose.
Central to the new strategy is Japan’s aspiration to achieve “AI sovereignty,” which involves bolstering the country’s capacity to develop and manage AI technologies independently. This move is part of a broader effort to reduce dependence on foreign tech providers. As AI models become increasingly sophisticated, they have also heightened the complexity and ease of executing cyber threats, prompting the government to reassess and possibly overhaul existing AI-related laws and systems.
Japan’s strategy also underscores the importance of international collaboration in tackling emerging security risks linked to AI. By strengthening ties with global partners, the government aims to better navigate the challenges posed by advanced AI technologies. The focus on expanding domestic AI capabilities is accompanied by an AI Transformation (AX) initiative, which seeks to integrate AI into various sectors, including industry decision-making and workforce development.
The strategy outlines targeted investments in vertical AI, which emphasizes applications in specific sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing, alongside physical AI, which encompasses robotics and autonomous driving technologies. As part of its long-term economic vision, Japan plans to secure 23.1 trillion yen in public and private investments for vertical AI and a further 10.5 trillion yen for physical AI by the fiscal year 2040.