NVIDIA CEO, Jensen Huang, announced plans to construct a network of semiconductor plants in Japan through collaboration with local companies to address the rising demand for graphics chips-powering AI. 

Speaking during a meeting with Japanese economy minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, Huang emphasised on Japan’s technical expertise and industrial capability for AI development. Highlighting the significance of Japan’s potential, Huang stated, “Japan has all the technical expertise and the industrial capability to create its own artificial intelligence right here in Japan.” 

He further expressed NVIDIA’s commitment to assisting Japan in nurturing more AI start-ups. The move aligns with Tokyo’s efforts to attract investments in cutting-edge semiconductor production, crucial for advancing future technologies.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has extended billions of dollars in financial support to bolster Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC). Additionally, support has been directed towards Rapidus, a local startup aspiring to establish a competitive presence in high-end chip manufacturing.

During discussions with Prime Minister Kishida, Huang conveyed the high demand for NVIDIA GPUs and assured prioritisation for Japan.

Additionally, Huang announced NVIDIA’s collaboration with Japanese companies, including SoftBank Corp, Sakura Internet Inc, and Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp, to advance research in generative AI. Kishida urged NVIDIA to supply as many GPUs as possible, recognising their pivotal role in generative AI development.

Huang emphasised the transformative potential of combining generative AI with Japan’s manufacturing expertise, envisioning a revolution in the field of robotics within the country. The announcement coincides with the growing adoption of generative AI by Japanese companies seeking to enhance competitiveness.

Japanese firms, including NEC Corp and SoftBank, have already ventured into generative AI services, responding to the heightened interest in AI applications. The Japanese government, led by Prime Minister Kishida, is actively supporting AI initiatives to stimulate economic growth. Huang shared insights with Kishida on how Japan can assume a leadership role in the evolving era of generative AI, exploring new opportunities for local industries.