Prime Minister Takaichi asked Keidanren to diversify supply sources for critical materials. With China tightening export controls on Japan, Tokyo is pushing seabed rare earth mining trials at Minamitorishima alongside international partnerships. In July 2026 the recovered mud was reported to be about 54% medium and heavy rare earths.
NTT is moving to repurpose its nationwide underground communication conduits for hydrogen transport. Using 600,000km of existing infrastructure could cut initial costs to under half of new pipeline construction. Commercialization is targeted for 2028, with transport trials in Tokyo set for fiscal 2026.
Kyushu Electric's CEO predicts 20-30% power demand increase by 2034 due to TSMC semiconductor expansion and AI data center growth. Japan's 7th Basic Energy Plan emphasizes renewables and nuclear power to meet surging electricity needs.
In 2025, Japanese agricultural corporation bankruptcies hit a record 103 cases. Learn about the structural challenges facing Japan's farming industry: weak yen, soaring material costs, labor shortages, and succession crisis, all while food self-sufficiency remains at just 38%.
Achi Village's "Heavenly Night Tour" in Nagano Prefecture has welcomed over 1.2 million visitors. This article explores the rural revitalization success story leveraging Japan's No.1 starry sky certified by the Ministry of Environment. Discover why tourists flock here even in freezing temperatures, the synergy with hot springs, and global astrotourism trends.
According to the latest forecast by SEAJ (Semiconductor Equipment Association of Japan), sales of Japanese-made semiconductor manufacturing equipment are projected to reach ¥5.5 trillion in FY2026, up 12% YoY, exceeding ¥5 trillion for the first time in history. Expanding investment in advanced AI semiconductors is driving growth, with Japanese companies like Tokyo Electron expected to gain global market share.
Dentsu Soken and UK's Quant Network announce partnership to pioneer Japan's stablecoin market. Learn how programmable payments and orchestration technology are transforming Japanese finance, alongside megabank pilots and JPYC developments shaping 2026's digital currency landscape.
In January 2026, Japan's top currency official warned that 'all options' were on the table as the yen hit 159 per dollar. We break down what's driving the slide, Japan's 2022 and 2024 intervention record, the 160 line, and the January BOJ meeting.
Mitsubishi Corporation has announced the acquisition of US shale gas company Aethon Energy for $7.5 billion, marking the largest Japanese investment in the American shale sector. This strategic move creates an integrated gas value chain from upstream production to LNG exports, positioning Japan for the AI-driven energy demand surge while enhancing national energy security.
Japan's mini supermarket chain 'My Basket' is rapidly expanding with over 1,290 stores and plans for 200+ new locations annually. This retail revolution is driven by Japan's aging population, rising single-person households, and changing urban lifestyles. Discover why compact neighborhood stores are replacing large supermarkets.
Following a ransomware attack in September 2025, Asahi Beer's October-December sales fell nearly 20% year-on-year. This article examines the challenges facing Japanese corporate cybersecurity through the case of Japan's largest beer manufacturer, which suffered significant damage during the crucial year-end sales season.