The Centre quarterly newsletter, March 2025 issue, is now available.
In this issue:
EU-Japan…
The EU Japan Centre is releasing a weekly press review covering Japan's economic and policy matters.
▶ Japan to Promote Solar Power Consolidation; Feed-In Tariff System to be Phased out from 2032
09 Mar, 2025
The Japanese Economy, Trade, and Industry Ministry plans to consolidate small-scale solar power projects starting in fiscal 2025, as the feed-in tariff (FIT) system, which guarantees fixed prices for renewable energy, will end in fiscal 2032. This move aims to prevent an exodus of small operators and promote solar power generation. The government will prioritize "certified operators" with larger capacities, offering them advantages such as early access to business sales information and relaxed regulations. With the FIT system's phase-out, the government hopes to expand solar power's share in Japan's energy mix to 23-29% by 2040, up from 9.8% in 2023.
Yomiuri：https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/business/economy/20250309-242338/
▶ Women promoted to managerial positions at quarter of men's rate in Japan
10 Mar, 2025
A Mainichi Shimbun analysis found that women in Japanese companies are promoted to managerial positions at just a quarter of the rate of men. The study, based on data from 2,083 companies, highlighted a significant gender gap, with the promotion ratio for women to managerial roles at only 0.24. Despite progress following a 2015 law promoting women’s workplace participation, barriers remain, especially beyond the section chief level. Industries like finance showed slightly better results, but overall, fewer women reach managerial positions. Experts call for work style reforms and better career development to address these disparities.
Mainichi: https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20250310/p2a/00m/0bu/016000c
▶ Hokkaido Shinkansen Extension to Be Delayed until End of FY '38
10 Mar, 2025
The Hokkaido Shinkansen extension to Sapporo is now expected to open by the end of fiscal 2038, eight years later than originally planned, due to challenges in tunnel construction. Difficult geological conditions and large rocks have slowed progress on the 212-kilometer section between Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto and Sapporo. The Japan Railway Construction, Transport and Technology Agency had previously stated that the 2030 opening was unlikely.
Jiji: https://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2025031000924
▶ Trade minister fails to win U.S. assurance of tariff exemption
11 Mar, 2025
Japan's Trade Minister Yoji Muto failed to secure assurances from U.S. officials regarding exemptions from tariffs planned by President Trump. Muto met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett on March 10, but no decision was made. Japan will continue discussions to seek exemptions for steel, aluminum, and automobile tariffs, which could significantly impact its economy. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba had previously emphasized Japan's contributions to the U.S. economy during a meeting with Trump in February.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15663394
▶ Japan losing to China in deep sea race as key research vessel ages
11 Mar, 2025
Japan’s only crewed deep-sea research vessel, the Shinkai 6500, is nearing the end of its operational life, with the supporting mother ship, Yokosuka, facing similar issues. The Shinkai 6500, built in 1989, can dive to 6,500 meters and has conducted 1,800 deep-sea explorations, but it may cease operations in the 2030s due to aging. Japan struggles to build a replacement due to the specialized technology required, such as the titanium alloy pressure hull. While Japan has plans to develop a successor, budget constraints have delayed progress. Meanwhile, other countries, especially China with its 11,000-meter class Fendouzhe submersible, have advanced significantly in deep-sea exploration. Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology has recommended focusing on addressing the aging vessels and exploring new uncrewed probes for deep-sea research.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Science/Japan-losing-to-China-in-deep-sea-race-as-key-research-vessel-ages
▶ Japan OKs policy for replacement of troubled foreign trainee scheme
11 Mar, 2025
Japan's Cabinet approved a new policy to replace the controversial foreign trainee program, addressing the country's labor shortage. The new scheme, set to be implemented by June 2027, will allow foreign workers to transition to a Specified Skilled Worker visa after three years. This visa will permit workers to change jobs within the same industry, unlike the previous system, which limited job mobility and led to exploitation. The policy also includes provisions for workers to pay taxes and social insurance, with exemptions for time off due to pregnancy. This shift aims to attract foreign talent to sectors facing labor shortages, such as construction, nursing, and agriculture.
▶ Japan's offshore wind ambitions face regional supply chain turbulence
11 Mar, 2025
Japan is expanding its offshore wind energy goals, aiming for 10 GW by 2030 and 30-45 GW by 2040. Recent policy changes, such as allowing wind power facilities in the country's exclusive economic zone, have reassured foreign companies seeking business opportunities in Japan. However, challenges like rising costs, supply chain limitations, and insufficient local infrastructure could delay progress. Mitsubishi Corp. and other companies are facing losses due to surging costs, and the country struggles to localize the offshore wind supply chain. Industry experts stress the need for closer collaboration between the government and private sector to ensure the success of early projects, which are critical for building a sustainable domestic market.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Energy/Japan-s-offshore-wind-ambitions-face-regional-supply-chain-turbulence
▶ Japan to export ISO-approved cold chain logistics to Asia
12 Mar, 2025
Japan is encouraging Southeast Asian countries to adopt its cold chain logistics standards, ISO 31512, in hopes of boosting its shipping companies and food exporters in the region. These standards, adopted by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), require real-time temperature monitoring during transportation and measures to maintain consistent temperatures. Japan has already held events in the Philippines and Vietnam to promote the standards and plans to continue these efforts. The move aims to improve cold chain logistics in Southeast Asia, where demand for refrigerated transportation is growing due to economic growth and increasing demand for frozen and chilled foods. The adoption of these standards would benefit Japan's businesses and contribute to its goal of expanding agricultural exports by 2030.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Transportation/Japan-to-export-ISO-approved-cold-chain-logistics-to-Asia
▶ Japan aims to increase rice exports 8-fold to 350,000 tons in 2030
12 Mar, 2025
The Japanese government plans to increase rice exports to 350,000 tons by 2030, nearly eight times the current level, as part of a broader strategy to enhance agricultural productivity and secure domestic food supply. The plan aims to raise the food self-sufficiency rate from 38% to 45% by 2030 and increase the value of agricultural exports from 1.5 trillion yen to 5 trillion yen. Additionally, the government seeks to reduce rice production costs and expand exports to address both domestic shortages and declining long-term demand due to Japan's shrinking population.
Mainichi: https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20250312/p2g/00m/0na/017000c
▶ US imposition of steel, aluminum tariffs 'regrettable': Japan
12 Mar, 2025
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihisa Hayashi expressed regret over the U.S. imposition of steel and aluminum tariffs despite Japan's request for an exemption. He emphasized that high-quality Japanese steel and aluminum products would benefit U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and stated that Japan will continue discussions with the U.S. on the issue.
Mainichi: https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20250312/p2g/00m/0na/024000c
▶ Robot phone tested to help elderly drivers avoid mistakes
13 Mar, 2025
A project led by Nagoya University, Sharp Corp., and other partners uses Sharp's Robohon humanoid phone to assist elderly drivers. In experiments, the robot, installed in the passenger seat, provides real-time information about traffic regulations, reducing dangerous violations like running stop signs. The robot is more effective than human passengers in preventing issues such as speeding and sudden stops. Demonstrations will begin in April, and commercialization of the driving assistance system is expected by March 2027.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15642963
▶ Japan's Itochu buys into Uzbek uranium mine
13 Mar, 2025
Japanese trading house Itochu is investing in a uranium mining project in Uzbekistan, anticipating increased demand for nuclear fuel as countries seek to reduce carbon emissions. Itochu has taken a minority stake in Nurlikum Mining, a joint venture between French company Orano and Uzbek state-run miner Navoiyuran. The project is expected to produce up to 700 tonnes of uranium annually for at least 10 years. Itochu, a major player in global uranium trading, already handles around 5,000 tonnes of uranium annually, primarily supplying nuclear power plants in Europe and the U.S.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Energy/Japan-s-Itochu-buys-into-Uzbek-uranium-mine
▶ Bakery leftovers wildly popular at Yokohama vending machine
13 Mar, 2025
A "phantom" vending machine at Kannai Station in Yokohama sells unsold bakery goods at discounted prices, aiming to reduce food waste and promote sustainability. The machine, stocked with products from Bakery En Michi, offers items at 30% off, with prices ranging from 300 to 1,000 yen. The initiative, launched in January 2024, has been popular, with items selling out quickly each day. It has helped reduce the bakery’s food waste and disposal rate. Yokohama plans to expand the program to 30 locations by 2025, potentially adding more products like vegetables and packaged dishes.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15614936
▶ Trump's ambassador pick wants Japan to pay more for U.S. bases
14 Mar, 2025
George Glass, nominated by President Donald Trump to be U.S. ambassador to Japan, told Senate lawmakers that he would press Japan to increase its financial support for hosting American troops, citing the growing threat from China. Currently, Japan contributes around $1.4 billion annually, but Glass believes this amount needs to rise, particularly as the Special Measures Agreement comes up for renewal in 2027. He also emphasized the importance of U.S.-Japan relations, highlighting Japan's role as a top investor in the U.S. and its commitment to reducing reliance on Russia by purchasing U.S. liquefied natural gas. Glass outlined priorities including deepening defense ties, addressing trade deficits, and accelerating military equipment delivery to Japan. If confirmed, Glass would succeed Rahm Emanuel as ambassador.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Trump-administration/Trump-s-ambassador-pick-wants-Japan-to-pay-more-for-U.S.-bases
▶ Japan uses satellites to expand greenhouse gas tracking in Asia
14 Mar, 2025
Japan is expanding the use of satellites to monitor greenhouse gas emissions across Asia, aiming to promote the use of Japanese energy-saving technologies. Currently, the Ibuki and Ibuki 2 satellites track emissions in Central Asia, with plans to extend monitoring to Turkmenistan by 2026. Japan's Environment Ministry plans further expansion using the new GOSAT-GW satellite, launching in 2025. Satellite data will help improve emissions reporting, particularly in developing countries, and encourage businesses to adopt low-emission Japanese technologies. The data will also be made freely available through the Tellus platform, making it easier to analyze and prevent "greenwashing" by companies.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Environment/Climate-Change/Japan-uses-satellites-to-expand-greenhouse-gas-tracking-in-Asia
▶ Trump's U.S. mining push a hard sell for Japan's trading houses
14 Mar, 2025
Analysts suggest that President Trump's push for increased mining in the U.S. will likely require subsidies to encourage Japanese trading houses to invest in high-risk projects. Despite their global experience in mining ventures, these companies are cautious about U.S. mining due to higher costs and smaller volumes compared to other regions. While some Japanese companies, like Sumitomo Corporation, are already increasing their rare earth trade with the U.S., the response to Trump's call for Japan to purchase American natural gas, including an Alaskan pipeline project, is more cautious. The economic viability of such projects, especially in challenging environments like Alaska, remains uncertain, and Japanese trading houses are not yet fully committed to these initiatives.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Business-trends/Trump-s-U.S.-mining-push-a-hard-sell-for-Japan-s-trading-houses
▶ Japan firm's rover ends mission on Moon, gives up surface exploration
08 Mar, 2025
Japanese startup Dymon Co. announced that its ultra-compact rover, Yaoki, will not proceed with its planned lunar exploration after the U.S. lander it was aboard, Athena, was declared dead. The lander, which landed sideways near the Moon's south pole, was unable to recharge its solar panels. Yaoki, which had transmitted images and temperature data before ceasing operations, had initially been planned to detach from the lander and be remotely operated for exploration. Athena was launched by Intuitive Machines and reached the Moon on February 26.
▶ Once-reluctant builders now using unmanned machinery, AI
09 Mar, 2025
At the Naruse Dam in Akita Prefecture, autonomous heavy machinery, part of Kajima Corp.'s A4CSEL system, is being used to address labor shortages in the construction industry. Since 2020, up to 14 unmanned machines have worked around the clock, performing tasks that would normally require human workers in multiple shifts. AI plays a key role in optimizing operations, improving efficiency and productivity. The construction industry in Japan faces significant labor shortages due to an aging workforce, prompting the adoption of automation. Kajima's technology, first implemented in 2015, has already set new records for construction output.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15632643
▶ Sumitomo Mitsui unit to acquire U.K.-based helicopter lessor
10 Mar, 2025
Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing (SMFL) will acquire U.K.-based helicopter lessor Macquarie Rotorcraft for over $1 billion to meet the growing demand for emergency medical and disaster relief operations. The acquisition, which includes debt, will make Macquarie Rotorcraft a wholly owned subsidiary by June 2025. The combined fleet of SMFL and Macquarie Rotorcraft will exceed 300 helicopters, rivaling industry leader Milestone Aviation Group. This deal is driven by the shortage of helicopters due to the Russia-Ukraine war and aims to expand operations and reduce costs. The acquisition also helps diversify SMFL's business risks, especially after the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its aircraft leasing business.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Business-deals/Sumitomo-Mitsui-unit-to-acquire-U.K.-based-helicopter-lessor
▶ Nissan tests driverless vehicles in city streets filled with cars and people
10 Mar, 2025
Nissan Motor Corp. is testing its driverless technology in Japan, using 14 cameras, nine radars, and six LiDar sensors on its Serena minivan. Despite Japan's late start in autonomous driving, momentum is growing, with Waymo planning to enter Japan this year through a partnership with a major taxi company. Nissan's system, still at Level Two autonomy, requires a human driver to intervene if necessary, but it plans to achieve Level Four autonomy (no human involvement) by 2029-2030. Japan's aging population and driver shortage make autonomous vehicles a potential solution. However, challenges remain, including public skepticism, the need for high-quality services, and "edge cases" where the system may struggle.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15662071
▶ Honda to halve engine output capacity at key Chinese plant
10 Mar, 2025
Honda Motor is reducing its engine production capacity in China due to rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs). The company will halve the annual production capacity of its joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Group, from 520,000 units to 260,000, by shutting down a manufacturing line at the Dongfeng Honda Engine factory by the end of March. This marks the first reduction in Honda's gasoline engine output in China. In 2024, Honda's vehicle sales in China fell by 30%, and it has also closed one of its gasoline-powered vehicle plants. Honda has been restructuring its gasoline car production in China and has ramped up EV production, with plans for dedicated EV plants in the country. New energy vehicles are expected to make up nearly 50% of new car sales in China.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Automobiles/Honda-to-halve-engine-output-capacity-at-key-Chinese-plant
▶ Japan's Mitsui O.S.K. to buy Dutch tank terminal operator for $1.7bn
10 Mar, 2025
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines will acquire all shares of Dutch chemical tank facility operator LBC Tank Terminals for $1.72 billion, marking its largest acquisition to date. LBC operates storage tanks for chemicals, crude oil, and petrochemicals in Europe and the U.S. and offers loading and unloading services for shipping. Chemical transport requires specialized knowledge and equipment, and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, a leader in the industry with 113 chemical tankers as of 2024, aims to strengthen its position with this acquisition. Additionally, Mitsui announced plans to acquire a Singaporean chemical tanker company for $400 million in March 2024.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Business-deals/Japan-s-Mitsui-O.S.K.-to-buy-Dutch-tank-terminal-operator-for-1.7bn
▶ Kubota to Exhibit Two Versatile Platform Robots for the Future Under the Theme of “Food and Agriculture”
10 Mar, 2025
Kubota Corporation will exhibit its versatile platform robots, the Type: V and Type: S models, at the Future City pavilion as part of its commitment to sustainable food and agriculture. The Type: V model will make its world debut, showcasing a fully autonomous platform capable of performing a wide range of agricultural tasks, such as tilling, pest control, and harvesting, while adjusting its size and implements as needed. The Type: S model is designed for rugged terrains, offering flexible leg movement for efficient cargo transport and precise management tasks. Kubota aims to demonstrate the future of food production with these robots, promoting data-driven, precision agriculture to address the declining number of agricultural workers. The models are expected to play a key role in advancing the sustainability of food and agriculture within planetary boundaries.
Kubota: https://www.kubota.com/news/2025/20250310.html
▶ Investment funds submit takeover bid for Makino, competing with Nidec
10 Mar,2025
Multiple investment funds have submitted takeover bids for Japan's Makino Milling Machine, following a bid by motor manufacturer Nidec in December. Makino has confirmed receiving letters of intent from potential bidders and is in the early stages of evaluating the offers. Nidec proposed to acquire Makino at 11,000 yen per share, a 41.94% premium over the market price, and seeks to acquire at least 50% of the shares. Makino has requested Nidec delay its tender offer to allow time to compare the new proposals. While Nidec has not indicated plans to raise its offer, attention is now on the competing bids from investment funds. Some stakeholders, including the Machine Tool Engineering Foundation, have expressed opposition to Nidec's bid, citing concerns over its impact on Makino's shareholders and services.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Business-deals/Investment-funds-submit-takeover-bid-for-Makino-competing-with-Nidec
▶ Hitachi Energy invests additional $250 million USD to address global transformer shortage
10 Mar, 2025
Hitachi Energy is investing an additional $250 million USD by 2027 to expand global production of critical transformer components in response to the growing transformer shortage. Over 40% of this investment will be dedicated to the U.S., where the company will enhance manufacturing capacity in Virginia, Missouri, and Mississippi and hire over 100 people. This follows a $6 billion USD investment announced in 2024 to upgrade power grids and meet the increasing demand driven by electrification, data centers, and AI. The investments aim to strengthen supply chains, expand manufacturing capabilities, and support the clean energy transition by improving transformer production, insulation, and components. Hitachi Energy plans to scale up its operations globally while focusing on sustainability and carbon-neutral goals by 2030.
Hitachi (News Release): https://www.hitachi.com/New/cnews/month/2025/03/250311a.pdf
▶ Nissan's new CEO on rocky road tackling major excess capacity
11 Mar, 2025
Ivan Espinosa has been appointed as Nissan Motor's new president and CEO, tasked with reducing excess capacity and developing attractive models as the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates. His appointment follows Nissan's abandonment of merger talks with Honda and comes as sales continue to decline in major markets. Espinosa, who joined Nissan in 2003, will focus on restructuring the company in the U.S. and China, two key markets. He inherits a company facing a forecasted net loss of ¥80 billion for fiscal 2024 and plans to cut 9,000 jobs and reduce global production capacity by 20%. Nissan's global production utilization is below 60%, prompting further capacity cuts. Espinosa’s priorities include boosting Nissan’s EV lineup and addressing challenges in both the U.S. and China. The company is also considering partnerships, including with Foxconn, to advance EV and software-based vehicle development.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Automobiles/Nissan-s-new-CEO-on-rocky-road-tackling-major-excess-capacity
▶ Japan’s coffee, whiskey makers trading gas for ‘green hydrogen’
11 Mar, 2025
UCC Ueshima Coffee Co. will mass-produce coffee roasted with hydrogen starting in April, making it the first company to do so. This eco-friendly method improves flavor control and supports UCC's goal of net-zero CO2 emissions by 2040. The coffee will be sold as a premium product, though it will be more expensive due to the higher cost of hydrogen. Other companies, like Suntory and Kirin, are also exploring hydrogen as an alternative fuel, which could impact the food and beverage industry’s energy use and environmental footprint.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15632425
▶ MHIET Achieves Rated Operation of a 6-Cylinder 500kW-class Hydrogen Engine Generator Set
12 Mar, 2025
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engine & Turbocharger (MHIET) successfully completed a demonstration test of a 500kW-class hydrogen engine generator set using 100% hydrogen fuel. The test confirmed stable operation from startup to shutdown and highlighted effective safety measures. This marks a significant step toward commercialization, with MHIET planning further safety and reliability evaluations. The hydrogen engine, which produces no CO2 during combustion, supports MHIET's goal of contributing to a decarbonized society. The green hydrogen used in the test was produced through a "P2G" system in Yamanashi Prefecture. This initiative is part of MHIET's broader efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries: https://www.mhi.com/news/25031201.html
▶ Japan chipmaker Rapidus slow to attract private-sector investment
12 Mar, 2025
Rapidus, a newly founded Japanese chipmaker, is receiving substantial government support, including 920 billion yen, to boost domestic semiconductor production. However, private-sector funding has been slow due to concerns over its lack of a proven track record. While companies like NTT and Sony have contributed, the government is considering further measures to encourage investment. Critics question the use of taxpayer money, and some fear the project could fail like the Elpida Memory case. Rapidus needs an additional 4 trillion yen for mass chip production.
▶ ArcelorMittal Chooses Primetals Technologies for Extensive Hot-Strip Mill Automation Upgrade
12 Mar, 2025
Primetals Technologies, a global leader in engineering, plant building, and lifecycle services for the metals industry, has signed a contract with ArcelorMittal to upgrade the automation systems at its compact strip production plant in Sestao, Spain. Primetals will supply new Level 1 and Level 2 automation systems, auxiliary drives, sensors, and startup services to enhance yield and product quality. The automation upgrade will optimize production, reduce downtime, and improve coiling temperatures through advanced AI-backed models. This project supports ArcelorMittal's efforts to ramp up production of XCarb® recycled and decarbonized steel. Primetals Technologies is a Group Company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, reflecting the group's commitment to innovative technologies and sustainable industrial solutions.
Primetals : https://www.primetals.com/press-media/news/arcelormittal-chooses-primetals-technologies-for-extensive-hot-strip-mill-automation-upgrade
▶ Mitsubishi Electric Defense Business Briefing
12 Mar, 2025
Mitsubishi Electric's defense business focuses on expanding orders and revenues with a target operating profit margin of 10%. The company leverages advanced technologies in missile defense, radar, and space systems to enhance Japan’s defense capabilities. Mitsubishi Electric is also expanding globally through defense equipment transfers, joint development, and participation in global supply chains. Its growth strategy includes satellite data services, cognitive warfare solutions, and next-generation fighter aircraft technology.
Mitsubishi Electric: https://www.mitsubishielectric.com/sites/news/2025/pdf/0312-1.pdf
▶ Toyota to launch 15 zero-emission vehicles in Europe by next year
13 Mar, 2025
Toyota Motor plans to launch 15 zero-emission vehicles in Europe by next year, including six electric vehicles (EVs), to help achieve its decarbonization goals and improve customer lifestyles. These new EVs will increase Toyota's share of EV sales in Europe from 5% to 20%. Notable models include the C-HR+ SUV, the Urban Cruiser, and a new version of the bZ4X. Toyota aims to sell 250,000 EVs in Europe by 2026, although it may reach this target later than planned due to easing demand for EVs. Despite growing competition from low-cost EVs, Toyota is not focused on releasing cheap models in Europe. Most of the new vehicles will be exported from Japan and India.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Automobiles/Toyota-to-launch-15-zero-emission-vehicles-in-Europe-by-next-year
▶ Nomura 2nd Japanese bank to exit global climate alliance for industry
13 Mar, 2025
Nomura Holdings has withdrawn from the U.N.-backed Net Zero Banking Alliance, following Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group's exit last week. Both decisions were made after climate-skeptic U.S. President Donald Trump returned to office. The alliance, which aims to align financial activities with net-zero emissions by 2050, has seen several major U.S. institutions, including Goldman Sachs, withdraw. Despite this, Nomura remains committed to raising $125 billion for environmental and social issues by March 2026. Four Japanese financial institutions, including Mitsubishi UFJ and Mizuho, still remain in the alliance.
Mainichi: https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20250313/p2g/00m/0bu/007000c
▶ SoftBank, OpenAI to run AI agents at former Sharp LCD plant
14 Mar, 2025
SoftBank Corp. plans to convert a former Sharp LCD panel plant in Sakai, Osaka, into a data center for developing AI agents in collaboration with OpenAI. The purchase of the facility, valued at about 100 billion yen ($676 million), will be finalized soon, with construction set for fiscal 2025 and operations expected to begin in 2026. The center will initially have a power capacity of 150 megawatts, increasing to 250 MW by 2028. It will host AI agent development using GPUs from Nvidia, with a goal of creating and commercializing AI agents tailored for Japanese businesses. The facility will also support SoftBank's own generative AI projects and will be available for rent by other companies and research institutions. This data center will be one of several SoftBank plans to develop across Japan.
The EU-Japan Centre currently produces 5 newsletters :
Joint venture established in 1987 by the European Commission (DG GROW) and the Japanese Government (METI) for promoting all forms of industrial, trade and investment cooperation between the EU and Japan.
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