Japan's METI to lift 2026 AI and semiconductor budget to ¥1.23T with 50% overall rise

Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry plans to raise support for advanced semiconductors and artificial intelligence to about ¥1.23 trillion for the fiscal year starting April 2026, nearly quadrupling current levels. The overall METI budget will increase by almost 50% after cabinet approval, with funds directed to projects such as Rapidus, domestic AI models, decarbonization and next-generation nuclear power, alongside a separate stimulus package worth about ¥21.3 trillion.