Japan to Outline Strategy for AI Development Amid DeepSeek's Rise

Japan is set to formulate a foundational plan for the development and application of artificial intelligence (AI), addressing key security concerns, as announced by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Friday. This decision follows the emergence of the Chinese startup DeepSeek and its chatbot, which has recently gained significant attention.

Ishiba emphasized during a session with parliament that leveraging AI is vital for tackling persistent challenges, such as low productivity rates in Japan. However, he also recognized the potential risks posed by misinformation and disinformation due to increased AI usage.

"There is a need to establish a comprehensive strategy that promotes research, development, and the responsible use of AI, ensuring safety and security," Ishiba stated in front of the Budget Committee of the House of Representatives.

These comments were prompted by DeepSeek's recent innovations that have surprised users and developers alike, causing a stir in financial markets. The company reportedly developed its AI model at a fraction of the costs compared to U.S. competitors while claiming its performance rivals that of OpenAI's ChatGPT.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressing the House of Representatives budget committee in Tokyo.

In response to concerns raised by lawmakers, including Itsunori Onodera, a former defense minister, Ishiba noted the rapid global spread of information that AI can sometimes generate. He illustrated this by referencing how DeepSeek's chatbot responded to inquiries about the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, stating it as China’s inherent territory based on historical claims, an issue that remains a diplomatic tug-of-war between Japan and China.

The Senkaku Islands are currently administered by Japan, which maintains that they are part of its intrinsic territory. In contrast, China asserts ownership, leading to ongoing territorial disputes.

Following the rise in popularity of DeepSeek's chatbot, numerous governments and companies have begun to restrict access citing concerns over data privacy and the handling of user information. Although the Japanese government has not yet imposed similar restrictions, it is preparing legislation related to AI development and usage, which is expected to be introduced to parliament during the current session, concluding on June 22.

Ishiba stated, "Our urgent challenge is to formulate legislation that can enhance the advantages of AI while minimizing associated risks and dangers."

Japan, AI, DeepSeek