(ANN/JAPAN NEWS) – Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has unveiled plans to position Japan as a global leader in artificial intelligence, pledging to propose legislation aimed at creating a model AI system during next year’s ordinary Diet session.
Addressing the Yomiuri International Economic Society in Tokyo, Ishiba emphasised the transformative potential of AI, describing it as a cornerstone for national competitiveness and societal advancement.
He highlighted its role in tackling labour shortages in regional businesses and the manufacturing sector, key challenges for Japan’s ageing workforce.
Balancing this ambition, Ishiba acknowledged growing public unease over AI risks. He stressed the need for a robust framework to manage these concerns while fostering innovation, aiming to establish Japan as a trailblazer in safe and ethical AI development.
Referring to an instance where an AI-generated image of him dressed as Santa Claus was posted on X, Ishiba stressed the necessity of creating a system to distinguish between content created by AI and by humans.
The AI-related legislation is expected to align closely with the interim proposals released Thursday by an expert advisory council on the government’s AI policies.
These proposals recommend strengthening the government’s command structure to oversee everything from the research and development to the application of AI.
The bill is also likely to include provisions for establishing an AI strategy headquarters composed of all Cabinet members.
Regulatory measures are also being considered, such as investigative authority being granted to the government to address malicious copyright infringement.
