Japan

Japan is one of the world’s most technologically advanced economies and a global leader in robotics, semiconductors and digital infrastructure. The government fosters digitalisation via initiatives such as "My Number", a digital ID system, and major investments in AI and next-generation networks. Japan’s deep industrial base together with its accelerating digital transformation makes it a vital technology partner and innovation hub in Asia.

In 2016, Japan and Germany established the Japan-Germany ICT Policy Dialogue to facilitate exchange and cooperation on digital policy and transformation. It is led by the German Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation (BMDS) and the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC).

Since its launch, the partnership has made significant headway:

Deepening cooperation on next-gen networks and AI

Japan and Germany face similar challenges in securing next-generation networks and ensuring the trustworthy use of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence. During the 8th annual meeting, representatives from Japan and Germany reported on their progress in secure 5G networks and open technologies like Open RAN. They also discussed the safe use of AI, focusing on the Hiroshima AI Process and the EU AI Act. Both countries agreed to deepen their cooperation in these areas. This close alignment between Germany and Japan contributes to setting global standards for secure, open and trustworthy digital technologies.

Aligning high-level digital cooperation with practical needs

For the bilateral cooperation to be most effective, it is vital that its focus stays grounded in the business realities. To this end, the Japan-Germany ICT Policy Dialogue provides a platform for industry representatives to voice their input on priority areas. In December 2025, the Federation of German Industries (BDI) as well as ng-voice raised various priority topics in a stakeholder consultation. These topics included market barriers, operational challenges, such as cybersecurity, and concrete policy requirements, like sovereign data management. These insights directly impact the agenda of the Japan-Germany ICT Policy Dialogue.

Find out more about activities within the Japanese-German ICT Policy Dialogue here!