Japan Targets 10 Million AI Robots by 2040 With $6 Billion Plan

Japan has announced an ambitious plan to develop its own artificial intelligence (AI) model while aiming to deploy around 10 million AI-powered robots by 2040 across multiple industries.

The Japanese government said it plans to invest approximately $6 billion in creating a domestically developed AI model. The project will be led by Noetra, a consortium that currently includes major companies such as SoftBank and Sony.

Japan Investing in Homegrown AI Technology

According to media reports, the government could provide up to one trillion yen (about $6.1 billion) over the next five years. The funding will depend on the progress and performance of the initiative.

Japan's move comes as countries around the world are working to develop sovereign AI models. These systems are designed to reduce dependence on AI technologies developed in the United States and China, helping nations strengthen their own technological capabilities.

More Companies Expected to Join Noetra

The Nikkei business daily reported that the number of companies participating in Noetra is expected to increase to 44. The consortium is expected to include businesses from the automotive, electronics, manufacturing, finance, and logistics sectors.

The collaboration aims to accelerate Japan's AI development while supporting innovation across several key industries.

Focus on Physical AI and Real-World Applications

Noetra will primarily focus on physical AI, a technology that brings artificial intelligence into real-world environments rather than limiting it to software applications.

Physical AI includes technologies such as:

• Self-driving vehicles
• Factory automation robots
• Android service robots
• AI-powered machines working in everyday environments

The Japanese government also announced a revised version of its AI robotics strategy on Tuesday to support these efforts.

Target of 10 Million AI Robots Across 18 Sectors

Speaking to reporters, Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa said the updated strategy aims to deploy around 10 million robots by 2040.

He said the government has expanded the programme by adding the restaurant, food manufacturing, and medical industries, increasing the total number of targeted sectors to 18. "This strategy sets a target of approximately 10 million robots to be deployed by 2040 and, with the addition of the restaurant, food manufacturing and medical sectors, will vigorously promote social implementation across a total of 18 fields," Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa said.

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He further stated: "We will build and grow data infrastructure for physical AI and robots that capitalise on Japan's strengths."

Robots Expected to Support an Ageing Workforce

Japan is also looking to use AI-powered robots to help address labour shortages caused by the country's ageing and declining population. The government hopes advanced robotics can fill workforce gaps across multiple industries.

AI Strategy Part of Wider Growth Plan

Last month, Japan introduced a 14-year national growth strategy targeting 370 trillion yen (around $2.3 trillion) in combined public and private investment.

The investment plan covers 17 strategic sectors, including:

• Physical AI
• Semiconductor technology
• Quantum technology
• Nuclear fusion

South Korea Also Expanding AI Investment

Japan's announcement comes shortly after South Korea unveiled record public-private investments worth hundreds of billions of dollars over several years to strengthen AI data centres and semiconductor manufacturing.