Japan advances digital transformation through regional infrastructure and data integration

The Japanese government is advancing digital transformation (DX) initiatives through two primary frameworks. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has opened applications for the ‘Regional Society DX Promotion Package Project’ through September 30, 2026. This program provides subsidies to local governments and business consortia to develop communication infrastructure and implement advanced solutions, such as AI and autonomous driving, to address challenges like population decline and aging demographics.

Separately, the 2026 Digital Society Priority Plan, approved by the Cabinet, focuses on enhancing data integration to support child welfare. To address issues such as poverty and abuse, the government aims to move toward ‘push-type’ and ‘outreach-type’ support. By the end of fiscal year 2030, the plan seeks to expand cross-departmental data sharing between education and welfare sectors. In fiscal year 2026, expert committees will begin studying the necessary requirements for nationwide implementation and the construction of a common data platform to identify and assist vulnerable families more effectively.