Japan's leading business federation, Keidanren, recently stressed the importance of Japan positioning itself as an AI and robotics powerhouse, urging the government to adopt long-term strategies to achieve this goal effectively. The lobby expressed concerns over current short- to medium-term tactics, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and far-reaching strategy that covers various industries to enhance Japan's industrial competitiveness.
Keidanren's proposal highlighted the necessity for Japan to establish a long-term plan extending to 2040, with a focus on strengthening the nation's industrial base. The lobby recommended close collaboration between the government, industry, and academia to formulate strategies ensuring Japan's economic growth and competitiveness in international markets. Recognizing the need to address Japan's economic stagnation and revitalize growth, Keidanren underlined the significance of a robust industrial sector as the key to achieving these objectives.
In its proposal, Keidanren emphasized the importance of government support for promising businesses to leverage Japan's strengths and gain a competitive edge globally. The lobby called for joint efforts between the public and private sectors to drive aggressive investments, create favorable business conditions, and foster innovative growth strategies. Keidanren also outlined seven strategic fields, including AI, robotics, semiconductors, and energy, as areas of high potential for Japan's industrial development in the future.
Moreover, Keidanren highlighted the pressing issue of Japan's labor shortage due to a declining population and emphasized the role of digital technology in ensuring economic prosperity. The lobby outlined the next few years as a critical period for intensive investment to enhance Japan's competitiveness and address structural challenges. Additionally, Keidanren proposed significant budget measures, tax system changes, deregulation efforts, and other initiatives to facilitate Japan's transformation into an AI and robotics superpower.
Keidanren's proposal also touched upon the importance of a stable and affordable electricity supply for businesses, especially in light of increased power consumption from generative AI technology. The lobby advocated for actively promoting and utilizing nuclear power, urging the government to restart reactors, replace aging facilities with new ones, and develop next-generation innovative reactors as part of a long-term energy strategy.