JAPAN TIMES


 

The Japanese government adopted Friday a new basic plan for science and technology policy, which for the first time calls for promoting research and development activities on technologies for military-civilian dual-use goods.

The policy direction reflects the fact that various countries are advancing the military application of advanced technologies. The basic plan also calls for raising the target for total public-private investment in science and technology from the current ¥120 trillion to ¥180 trillion.

Japan's science and technology basic plan is revised every five years. The new plan covers fiscal 2026 to fiscal 2030.

Countries around the world are taking advantage of the rapid development of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence to enhance their national security.

The new plan says that improving dual-use technologies is "essential from the viewpoint of security and economic growth."

It designates AI and semiconductors as "national strategic technologies," aiming to promote domestic development while preventing their outflow overseas. It also features support for human resource development.

The plan also calls for establishing a research institute for critical technology strategy in fiscal 2026, which starts next month, to advise the government on economic security in the field of science and technology.

At a Council for Science, Technology and Innovation meeting on Friday, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the government will "work as one to promote the plan, including basic research, human resource development, social implementation and the enhancement of industrial competitiveness"