Daijiworld Media Network - Tokyo

Tokyo, Apr 3: Microsoft on Friday announced plans to invest 1.6 trillion yen (around $10 billion) in Japan between 2026 and 2029 to expand artificial intelligence infrastructure and strengthen cybersecurity collaboration.

The investment plan, unveiled during a visit to Tokyo by Vice Chair and President Brad Smith, includes training 1 million engineers and developers by 2030. The initiative aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to accelerate growth through advanced technologies while ensuring national security.

Microsoft said it will partner with domestic firms such as SoftBank and Sakura Internet to expand AI computing capacity within Japan. This will enable businesses and government agencies to store sensitive data locally while accessing Microsoft Azure services.

The tech giant will also enhance cooperation with Japanese authorities on cybersecurity, including intelligence sharing on cyber threats and crime prevention.

Japan’s adoption of AI has grown rapidly since 2024, with about one in five working-age individuals using generative AI tools, according to Microsoft data. However, the country is expected to face a shortage of over 3 million AI and robotics workers by 2040, highlighting the urgency of such investments.