Japan's AI push: SoftBank-led consortium and 370 trillion‑yen government plan

SoftBank is spearheading a private AI research project in Japan under a newly formed company called Japan AI Base Model Development. The initiative, revealed by Nikkei, aims to gather more than 40 firms—including Sharp, Daiwa House Industry, NEC, Honda and Sony—to fund the creation of a domestic AI foundation model. Each participating company is expected to contribute roughly ¥10 million, with the goal of building Japan’s largest AI model of about one trillion parameters by 2027.

Separately, the Japanese government has announced a 370 trillion‑yen public‑private investment roadmap targeting 17 strategic sectors through 2040, with AI and semiconductors earmarked for ¥101.6 trillion. The plan seeks to spur research, development and equipment spending, enhance economic security and stimulate corporate investment. Analysts suggest that successful implementation could lift Japanese equities and support medium‑term GDP growth, while also bolstering the nation’s technological base.

Together, the corporate consortium and the state‑led investment strategy represent a coordinated effort to accelerate Japan’s AI capabilities and secure its position in advanced technology markets.