Nvidia‘s CEO, Jensen Huang, pledged on Monday to meet the surging demand for its artificial intelligence processors in Japan as the country accelerates efforts to revitalize its semiconductor infrastructure and advance in AI technology. Japan, once a pioneer in semiconductor technology, is seeking to regain its prominence in the field.
During his visit to Tokyo, Huang emphasized Nvidia’s commitment to supporting Japan’s requirements for graphics processing units (GPUs), which currently dominate the AI market. The pledge was made following discussions with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, where Huang expressed the company’s dedication to prioritizing Japan’s needs for GPUs.
Japan’s urgency in bolstering its semiconductor capabilities is highlighted by its recent allocation of approximately ¥2 trillion ($13.60 billion) in an extra budget, specifically earmarked for chip investments. Some of these funds are expected to support key players such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and Rapidus, a chip foundry venture with ambitions to produce cutting-edge chips in Hokkaido.
During discussions at the Prime Minister’s official residence, Huang underscored the potential of Japan’s growing semiconductor industry to manufacture GPUs. He remarked, “The semiconductor industry that Japan is now starting to grow and foster will be able to produce GPUs.”
Huang also emphasized the global trend among nations, including Japan, recognizing the importance of owning their data, establishing AI factories, and developing their own AI intelligence. This strategic approach aligns with the broader movement among countries to secure their positions in the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence.
Nvidia’s commitment to supplying AI processors to Japan comes as the nation aims to regain its foothold in the semiconductor industry and strategically invests in cutting-edge chip manufacturing. The collaboration between Nvidia and Japan reflects the evolving landscape of global technology partnerships amid the ongoing semiconductor resurgence.
