This is the new MLex platform. Existing customers should continue to use the existing MLex platform until migrated.
For any queries, please contact Customer Services or your Account Manager. Dismiss

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....

Prepare for tomorrow’s regulatory change, today

MLex identifies risk to business wherever it emerges, with specialist reporters across the globe providing exclusive news and deep-dive analysis on the proposals, probes, enforcement actions and rulings that matter to your organization and clients, now and in the longer term.


Know what others in the room don’t, with features including:

  • Daily newsletters for Antitrust, M&A, Trade, Data Privacy & Security, Technology, AI and more
  • Custom alerts on specific filters including geographies, industries, topics and companies to suit your practice needs
  • Predictive analysis from expert journalists across North America, the UK and Europe, Latin America and Asia-Pacific
  • Curated case files bringing together news, analysis and source documents in a single timeline

Experience MLex today with a 14-day free trial.

Start Free Trial

Already a subscriber? Click here to login

Related Sections