Microsoft has announced a substantial investment of $2.9 billion dedicated to enhancing cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure in Japan over the next two years.
This landmark investment marks the largest single commitment Microsoft has made in Japan during its 46-year history of collaboration with the country. The initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to address deflation and stimulate economic growth by expanding digital infrastructure, bolstering security capabilities, and nurturing skilled talent.
Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister of Japan, emphasized the importance of collaboration with global entities like Microsoft in advancing digital infrastructure and cybersecurity. He acknowledged Microsoft’s significant contributions to Japan’s adoption of generative AI and expressed anticipation for further collaboration.
The expanded digital capacity will enable Microsoft to offer more advanced computing resources, including cutting-edge graphics processing units to accelerate AI workloads. This investment complements Microsoft’s support for the Generative AI Accelerator Challenge, an initiative led by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, aimed at fostering the development of generative AI models by startups and established enterprises.
Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, hailed the investment as the company’s most significant commitment to Japan since its establishment in 1978. He underscored the importance of investments in digital infrastructure, AI skills, cybersecurity, and AI research for Japan’s journey towards building a robust AI-driven economy.
As part of its initiative, Microsoft will establish its first Microsoft Research Asia lab in Tokyo, focusing on research and development projects related to embodied AI, robotics, societal AI, and scientific discoveries aligned with Japan’s socioeconomic priorities.
Furthermore, Microsoft aims to train three million full and part-time workers in AI skills over the next three years, with a primary focus on women, developers, and students. The company will implement AI-centric programs in vocational high schools, provide startup support, and collaborate with institutions like the United Nations Institute for Training and Research to offer accessible AI, cybersecurity, and digital skills content.
In addition to these efforts, Microsoft will allocate $10 million in resource grants over the next five years to The University of Tokyo and the Partnership on Artificial Intelligence Research between Keio University and Carnegie Mellon University. The collaboration with Japan’s Cabinet Secretariat will further strengthen cybersecurity resilience through initiatives focused on information sharing, talent development, and technology solutions.
Miki Tsusaka, President of Microsoft Japan, expressed the company’s commitment to Japan’s future by leveraging technology and knowledge. She emphasized Microsoft’s dedication to supporting the people and organizations of Japan in addressing societal challenges and achieving greater accomplishments.