Microsoft announced plans to invest 1.6 trillion yen (approximately $10 billion) in Japan between 2026 and 2029 to expand artificial intelligence infrastructure and strengthen cybersecurity collaboration with the government, reports Reuters.
The investment includes a commitment to train 1 million engineers and developers by 2030, the company said. The plan was unveiled during a visit to Tokyo by Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith.
Microsoft said the initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to boost economic growth through advanced technologies while reinforcing national security.
As part of the expansion, Microsoft will partner with Japanese firms including SoftBank and Sakura Internet to increase domestic AI computing capacity. This will enable businesses and government agencies to store sensitive data within Japan while accessing Microsoft’s Microsoft Azure services.
The company also plans to deepen cooperation with Japanese authorities on sharing intelligence related to cyber threats and crime prevention.
AI adoption in Japan has accelerated since 2024, with Microsoft estimating that around one in five working-age individuals now uses generative AI tools.
However, Japan is expected to face a shortage of more than 3 million workers in AI and robotics by 2040, according to government projections, underscoring the need for large-scale investment in skills and infrastructure.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
