In November, less than a month after taking office, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi established the Japan Growth Strategy Headquarters to “fundamentally reinforce the country’s supply structure and realize a ‘robust economy.’”

To that end, she and her Cabinet identified 17 strategic sectors — including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technologies, aerospace, digital and cybersecurity — for priority investment in crisis management and economic growth. Many of these technology areas are deeply interconnected, meaning policies focused on individual sectors may be insufficient.

The space sector provides a clear example. Space systems are increasingly linked with emerging technologies such as quantum-secured communications and AI-driven data processing. Crucially, space systems depend on data links between satellites and ground infrastructure, making them inherently tied to cybersecurity.

© The Japan Times