Microsoft announced an investment of US $2.9 billion in the next two years to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure in Japan. Additionally, it plans to enhance its digital upskilling initiatives, aiming to offer artificial intelligence training to over 3 million individuals in the next three years.
Microsoft will inaugurate its inaugural Microsoft Research Asia lab in Japan and strengthen its cybersecurity partnership with the Government of Japan. These investments are geared towards bolstering Japan’s central strategy to combat deflation and stimulate economic growth by bolstering the infrastructure, expertise, and security necessary to expedite Japan’s digital evolution and embrace artificial intelligence (AI).
This declaration aligns with the state visit of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to the United States, during which he was accompanied by Microsoft’s Vice Chair and President Brad Smith, as well as Microsoft Japan President Miki Tsusaka.
Microsoft’s pledge of US $2.9 billion marks its most sustainable investment in Japan throughout its 46-year history, a significant milestone considering Japan was located in its first international office. This commitment effectively doubles the company’s current financial dedication to expanding its AI and cloud infrastructure throughout Japan.