Japan doubles down on high-risk AI infrastructure bets amid long odds
By Jeyup S Kwaak ( January 8, 2026, 10:01 GMT | Comment) -- The US and China may be enjoying an early lead in artificial intelligence, but Tokyo’s recently approved draft budget for the 2026 fiscal year shows Japan continues to dream of a future where it plays a major role in shaping AI development. With billions of taxpayer money earmarked for supporting advanced chipmaking and AI model development, Japan seems to believe it can close the gap with the superpowers — or at least carve out an important niche in the ongoing revolution.The US and China may be enjoying an early lead in artificial intelligence, but Tokyo’s recently approved draft budget for the 2026 fiscal year shows Japan continues to dream of a future where it plays a major role in shaping AI development....
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