Japan is aiming to deploy around 10 million AI-powered robots across 18 industries by 2040 as part of an ambitious strategy to strengthen its domestic artificial intelligence capabilities and address long-term labour shortages.
The government also plans to support the development of a homegrown AI model through Noetra, a consortium that includes SoftBank and Sony. Local media reported that up to ¥1 trillion, equivalent to about US$6.1 billion, could be invested over the next five years, depending on the project’s progress.
The latest roadmap reflects a growing global push for sovereign AI, with countries seeking to reduce reliance on technology developed in the US and China. According to the Nikkei business daily, Noetra is expected to expand to 44 participating companies spanning sectors including automotive, electronics, manufacturing, finance and logistics.
Japan’s strategy places a strong emphasis on physical AI, where artificial intelligence is embedded into real-world applications such as autonomous vehicles, factory automation and service robots rather than software-based assistants.
Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa said, “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.”
He added, “We will build and grow data infrastructure for physical AI and robots that capitalise on Japan’s strengths.”
The initiative follows Japan’s recently announced 14-year growth strategy targeting ¥370 trillion in combined public and private investment across 17 strategic industries, including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technology and nuclear fusion.
The robot expansion also forms part of Japan’s response to its ageing and shrinking population, with AI expected to help ease workforce shortages in key sectors.
