In an interview with Nikkei Asia, Microsoft President Brad Smith unveiled plans to invest USD 2.9 billion to develop and expand data centers in Japan by 2025. This investment marks Microsoft's largest financial commitment in Japan to date.

The U.S. tech giant will announce the plans soon, coinciding with the visit of Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to the United States. The investment is aimed at installing advanced AI semiconductors at two existing facilities in eastern and western Japan. This strategic move comes at a time when Japan is making concerted efforts to regain ground in the semiconductor manufacturing sector.

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The Japanese government has reportedly set aside about USD 26 billion over the last three years for this purpose, with Prime Minister Kishida eyeing  in USD 66 billion financial aid to semiconductor factories in Japan, along with the private sector.

In addition to the infrastructure investment, Microsoft also plans to launch an AI-related reskilling program in Japan. The program aims to train three million workers over three years. This initiative underscores Microsoft's commitment to fostering AI talent and ensuring that the workforce is equipped to navigate the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Furthermore, Microsoft intends to establish a new lab in Tokyo for research and development on robotics and AI. Microsoft Research Asia will establish the new lab and give USD 10 million to the University of Tokyo as well as a partnership between Keio University and Carnegie Mellon University to fund research projects over the following five years.

Objectives of the Investment

Microsoft's hefty USD 2.9 billion investment in Japanese data centers by 2025 signifies a strategic move fueled by the burgeoning Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry. Here's a breakdown of the potential objectives behind this significant investment:

Boosting AI Business

The primary objective of this investment is to boost Microsoft's artificial intelligence (AI) business. By installing advanced AI semiconductors at two existing facilities in eastern and western Japan, Microsoft aims to enhance its AI capabilities.

Supporting Japan's Semiconductor Industry

This investment aligns with Japan's efforts to regain ground in the semiconductor manufacturing sector. By investing in AI semiconductors, Microsoft is contributing to the growth and development of this crucial industry.

Promoting Research and Development

Microsoft intends to establish a new lab in Tokyo for research and development on robotics and AI. This lab will be established by Microsoft Research Asia, which will provide funding to both the University of Tokyo and a collaboration between Keio University and Carnegie Mellon University to fund research projects over the next five years.

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