Japan’s push to reclaim its tech leadership could hinge on embracing rapid innovation and expanding its tech sectors like AI, cybersecurity, and semiconductors, experts told Agence France-Presse (AFP). Significant investments from US tech giants, including Google and Microsoft, underscore this trend. Google recently set up a regional cyberdefence hub, while Amazon Web Services is investing USD14bn to enhance Japanese cloud services. Microsoft has also committed USD2.9bn to advance Japan’s AI capabilities. These developments come as Japan aims to diversify from its traditional manufacturing strengths amid a declining workforce, and seeks to position itself as a stable alternative to China in the tech realm. The country is actively fostering closer tech collaborations with the U.S., aiming to boost its global tech standing and secure a robust position in next-generation technologies.