Politics and Economy

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News, Society & Economy

Italian PM Meloni Meets Fist of the North Star Creator Tetsuo Hara - Manga as Cultural Diplomacy

On January 16, 2025, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met manga legend Tetsuo Hara, creator of Fist of the North Star, during her visit to Japan. Learn about Hara's historic honor at the Uffizi Gallery, how Fist of the North Star influenced Dragon Ball, Naruto, and One Piece, and why the series remains beloved in Italy after 40 years. Discover how manga has become a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy.

News, Society & Economy

Japan's Semiconductor Equipment Industry to Exceed ¥5 Trillion for First Time | AI Boom Drives Global Market Share Growth [SEAJ 2026 Forecast]

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.

News, Society & Economy

Beyond Minamitorishima: Japan's Mountain Rare Earths - The Discovery of Takanawaite and Challenges to Resource Development

A new mineral called Takanawaite discovered in Mt. Takanawa, Ehime Prefecture contains rare earth elements. However, commercial development faces three major barriers: mining volume, stable supply, and radioactive waste processing. This article explores Japan's path to becoming a "resource power" alongside the Minamitorishima seabed development project.