Microsoft announced it will invest $2.9 billion in Japan’s cloud computing and AI infrastructure over the next two years. It will be the largest investment by the tech giant, which has enjoyed steady growth in the Japanese market for over 46 years.
The investment in Japan’s tech industry is expected to benefit at least 3 million Japanese through upskilling and new full-time and part-time jobs.
This new investment also builds on Microsoft’s support for the Generative AI Accelerator Challenge (GENIAC), a program led by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry that helps innovative startups and established enterprises develop foundation models as a core technology of generative AI in the country.
As part of its investment, Microsoft also plans to work with Japan’s Cabinet Secretariat to strengthen cybersecurity resilience under its updated National Security Strategy.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has expressed full support for Microsoft’s initiatives.
“As economic activities in the digital space increase, it is important for the Japanese industry as a whole to work with global companies like Microsoft that are equipped with a set of digital infrastructure. We appreciate Microsoft’s announcement of its new investment in Japan,” Kishida said.
“Microsoft has made significant contributions to the social implementation of generative AI in Japan through various initiatives, and we look forward to further collaboration. We also look forward to deepening our cooperation in the field of cybersecurity,” the prime minister added.
Meanwhile, Microsoft Japan President Miki Tsusaka said, “We are honored to contribute to Japan and its future with our largest investment to date, technology and knowledge. In collaboration with our partners, Microsoft Japan is fully committed to supporting the people and organizations of Japan to solve social problems and achieve more.”
