Japan strengthens AI and semiconductor push with extra budget plan

Japan is moving ahead with a new spending plan to reinforce its long-term strategy for artificial intelligence and semiconductor development.

The government has outlined an extra budget of about ¥252.5 billion, reports Bloomberg, which is smaller than last year’s package but reflects a shift in approach.

Instead of relying on large one-off allocations, Japan wants to place most funding for these sectors into regular budgets.

Officials say this structure will help create predictable support for industries seen as essential for economic security. The plan now heads to Parliament after being approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s cabinet on Friday.

Extra budget focus

Parliamentary approval is expected to be smoother than usual, as reports suggest the ruling coalition is set to secure a majority in the lower house with the help of a small caucus.

This would make the legislative process faster and ensure that funding reaches strategic projects without long delays.

Japan has been working to revive its chip industry since it rolled out a new strategy in 2021.

Since then, the country has committed about ¥5.7 trillion to semiconductor efforts.

These include investments in Rapidus Corp., support for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.’s foundries in Kumamoto, and spending linked to Micron Technology’s factory in Hiroshima.

The broader goal is to build a foundation that can compete with rapidly advancing manufacturing hubs across Asia.

The new extra budget fits within this broader framework but aims to improve stability.

By shifting more funding into regular annual budgets, Japan wants to give companies more certainty as they plan future projects.

This also aligns with the growing links between AI development and advanced semiconductor production, which require long investment cycles.

Chip strategy

Japan’s long-running semiconductor revival strategy continues to shape investment priorities.

The extra budget is designed to complement existing allocations rather than replace them.

Technology companies that depend on advanced manufacturing are expected to benefit from the government’s transition to steady, predictable funding.

Stable financing is seen as important as Japan works to attract global chipmakers and ensure continuity for large projects.

This includes research efforts, manufacturing development, and supply chain construction tied to AI technologies.

Government support is meant to reduce the risk of delays and create a clearer roadmap for companies considering long-term commitments.

Trade insurance support

The Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry is directing a major share of the new allocation.

One part of the plan includes a request for ¥100 billion for Nippon Export and Investment Insurance.

Strengthening the insurer’s financial base is considered important, as it is expected to support a $550 billion investment programme under the US-Japan trade agreement.

With more capital, NEXI can take on larger risks in international markets.

This helps Japanese companies expand overseas while protecting them from financial shocks linked to global uncertainty.

The insurer’s role has grown as Japan attempts to build stronger connections between its domestic industries and global investment flows.

Rare earth supply

Another key element of the budget is Japan’s focus on securing critical minerals. The ministry has asked for ¥93.7 billion to help private companies obtain rare earths and expand national stockpiles.

These minerals are essential for electronics, batteries, and clean energy technologies.

Japan has been reducing its reliance on China for rare earth supplies for several years.

The new allocation supports this strategy by helping the country build stronger and more resilient supply chains.

Expanding stockpiles also provides a buffer during market disruptions or tightening export controls.

Japan’s combined initiatives show a coordinated effort to strengthen its technology infrastructure.

The extra budget may be smaller than last year’s figure, but the structural shift signals a move toward long-term planning.

The mix of support for AI, chips, trade finance, and mineral security reflects a broader strategy to boost economic resilience during rapid global competition.

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