Tokyo executives from Fujitsu, Fanuc, Yaskawa and Kawasaki Heavy announced a joint effort with Nvidia to develop “physical AI” robots that can operate safely alongside people.
The partners said the push targets Japan’s acute labor shortage and aging population, with envisioned uses in factories, homes and hospitals, including care for elderly people living alone.
Later this year marks the first phase of the collaboration, though the companies gave no timeline for everyday deployment and said no joint venture has been decided.
The initiative builds on an Nvidia-Fujitsu deal from last year and fits Japan’s broader catch-up drive in AI, backed by a 370 trillion yen ($2.3 trillion) technology investment plan through 2040.
In the global robotics arms race, can Japan's massive AI investment secure its technological independence?
With 10 million AI robots planned, is Japan solving its population crisis or creating a new societal challenge?
Japan’s Sovereign AI Robotics Strategy: Targeting 30% of the $133B Global Market by 2040
Overview
Japan is launching an ambitious national initiative to build a sovereign AI infrastructure focused on robotics, aiming to secure a leading position in the global market. With the release of Japan’s AI Robotics Strategy in March 2026, the country targets capturing over 30% of the global AI robotics market by 2040, a sector valued at $133 billion. Led by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan is developing advanced multimodal AI models and fostering an environment where cutting-edge AI can thrive. This bold move positions Japan to lead the next industrial revolution driven by intelligent robotics.