Microsoft is set to invest $10 billion in Japan from 2026 to 2029, focusing on developing artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and cybersecurity. This initiative follows discussions between Microsoft’s Vice Chair Brad Smith and Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The partnership with Sakura Internet and SoftBank aims to enhance AI computing resources using local data centers, boosting the country’s growing demand for cloud services. Currently, around 20% of working-age Japanese utilize generative AI, surpassing the global average of 16%. The collaboration will enable domestic processing of data and the creation of advanced AI systems, including large language models. Additionally, Microsoft will partner with five major Japanese IT firms, like NTT Data, NEC, Fujitsu, and Hitachi, to train one million AI professionals by 2030. The announcement led to a significant 20.2% surge in Sakura Internet shares, reflecting optimism surrounding the AI investment.
Source link
