Tokyo, April 3, 2026 – Microsoft announced today that it will invest 1.6 trillion yen ($10 billion) in Japan between 2026 and 2029 to expand artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and strengthen cybersecurity collaboration with the Japanese government.
The initiative includes training 1 million engineers and developers by 2030 and supports Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s vision to drive economic growth through advanced technologies while safeguarding national security, Microsoft said during a visit to Tokyo by Vice Chair and President Brad Smith.
As part of the plan, Microsoft will partner with Japanese companies, including SoftBank and Sakura Internet, to expand Japan-based AI computing capacity. This will enable businesses and government agencies to retain sensitive data domestically while accessing Microsoft Azure services. The company will also deepen cooperation with authorities on sharing intelligence related to cyber threats and crime prevention.
According to Microsoft, AI adoption in Japan has accelerated since 2024, with about one in five working-age individuals using generative AI tools. The Japanese government estimates that the country will face a shortfall of more than 3 million AI and robotics workers by 2040, highlighting the need for workforce development initiatives under this investment plan.
–The Star
