Japan unveils new AI strategy to strengthen independent research and development and security.
Due to the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the United States and China, the Japanese government on Tuesday (July 14) released a new version of its AI strategy plan to strengthen its response to the risks of AI technology and expand its independent research and development.
According to Nikkei, although Japan has long hoped to take the lead in setting international rules for artificial intelligence, it has lagged behind the United States and China in terms of research and development capabilities and research infrastructure.
In the field of AI, Japanese private companies invest US$1.11 billion (approximately S$1.43 billion) annually, ranking 14th in the world. The United States ranks first (US$285.9 billion), and China ranks second (US$12.41 billion).
The AI strategy plan released on Tuesday is the second version since the Kaohsiung City Government took office last year.
According to the plan, the authorities will expand the investment framework to promote "AI transformation" (AX). Investment in "vertical AI" (such as healthcare and industry) is planned to reach ¥23.1 trillion by 2040. Investment in "physical AI" (such as autonomous driving and robotics) is projected at ¥10.5 trillion.
Japan has listed AI and quantum technology as one of its 17 strategic priority investment areas and plans to support cutting-edge AI research by Japanese universities and companies through measures such as expanding research grants.
In terms of talent development, the Japanese government will establish a mechanism to support universities in systematically promoting the overseas deployment of researchers and graduate students. The plan is to train at least 20,000 doctoral graduates in related fields annually and .
Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lawmaker Masaaki Taira, who is drafting AI safety laws, said that AI has become an extremely important issue for national security and economic development. He stressed the need for increased government involvement in its use and avoiding over-reliance on specific countries or companies. Therefore, Japan must strengthen its independent research and development of AI.
It is reported that the recent release of flagship models Claude and Mythos by the US AI technology company Anthropic, which are capable of discovering cybersecurity vulnerabilities and launching high-performance attacks, has prompted authorities to focus on AI security issues.
According to reports, Japanese authorities are prioritizing measures in the financial sector, as well as the use of AI in key industries such as oil, gas, and electricity companies. They will not only strengthen inspections of these infrastructures but also establish risk assessment systems to enhance their ability to respond to cyberattacks.
Source: [Lianhe Zaobao] (https://www.zaobao.com/news/world/story20260715-9370308)