智通财经网·2025-11-06 04:16Core Viewpoint - Japan's ruling party plans to raise approximately 1 trillion yen (about 6.5 billion USD) annually to support the development of advanced semiconductor manufacturing and AI ecosystems, aiming to regain its status as a semiconductor manufacturing leader and become an AI superpower comparable to the US and China [1][4]. Funding Strategy - Starting from the new fiscal year in April, most government funding will be sourced through regular budgets rather than supplementary budgets, marking a shift from previous years [1][2]. - This change is expected to provide a more stable funding source without disrupting market stability [1][2]. Government Investment - Since the new semiconductor revival strategy was established in 2021, Japan has allocated approximately 5.7 trillion yen to support domestic semiconductor and AI sectors, primarily through supplementary budgets [1][2]. - In the previous year's supplementary budget, about 1.5 trillion yen was allocated for semiconductor and AI support, part of a larger commitment of over 10 trillion yen for these technology sectors [2]. Key Players - Approximately 1.7 trillion yen of the allocated government funds has been directed to Rapidus Corp., which aims to achieve mass production of cutting-edge 2nm chips by 2027 [2][3]. - Rapidus is positioned as Japan's core player in advanced chip manufacturing, competing with TSMC in logic chip foundry services [2][3]. Industry Dynamics - The majority of the world's advanced AI chips are currently manufactured by TSMC, while Japan is increasing its support for domestic chip manufacturers to enhance their advanced process production capabilities [3]. - Rapidus, established in 2022, has received significant government financial backing and support from major Japanese companies, including Toyota and Sony, to develop 2nm chips for AI, autonomous driving, and quantum computing applications [3]. Economic Policy Context - The new Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, is expected to revive "Abenomics," focusing on aggressive fiscal stimulus and industrial support policies, which could positively impact Japan's domestic demand and core technology sectors [4][5]. - The anticipated continuation of Abenomics is seen as a long-term catalyst for the Japanese stock market, particularly benefiting technology stocks and sectors related to semiconductors and AI [5]. Historical Perspective - Japan's past missteps in technology investments have led to missed opportunities in key sectors like IT and the internet, prompting the current government to double down on semiconductor and AI technologies to secure a leading position in these critical fields [6].