Japan Leaning Towards More Lenient AI Regulations, Challenging EU's Stringent Approach

 Japan Leaning Towards More Lenient AI Regulations, Challenging EU's Stringent Approach

Japan Leaning Towards More Lenient AI Regulations, Challenging EU(Getty)

According to an anonymous official familiar with the discussions, Japan is leaning towards adopting more lenient regulations for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) compared to the European Union (EU). The country sees AI as a means to drive economic growth and become a leader in advanced chips.

By the end of the year, the aim is to establish an AI approach that aligns more closely with the United States' stance rather than the strict regulations advocated by the EU. The official, who preferred not to be named due to lack of authorization, suggested that Japan's softer approach could undermine the EU's efforts to establish its rules as the global standard. The EU's regulations include requirements for companies to disclose copyrighted material utilized to train AI systems that generate content, such as text and graphics.

Thierry Breton, the EU industry chief, is currently in Tokyo to promote the EU's approach to AI regulation and deepen cooperation in the field of semiconductors.

The official did not provide specific details regarding the areas in which Japan's regulations are likely to diverge from those of the EU.

Yutaka Matsuo, the chair of the Japanese government's AI strategy council and a professor at the University of Tokyo, described the EU's rules as overly strict, asserting that it is nearly impossible to pinpoint copyrighted material used in deep learning. Matsuo, who also serves as the chair of the Japan Deep Learning Association and an independent director on the board of SoftBank Group, stated that the EU's focus is more on holding large companies accountable rather than promoting innovation.

The advancements in generative AI, pioneered by companies like OpenAI (backed by Microsoft), are generating both excitement and concern due to their potential to transform businesses and society at large.

AI, along with other technologies like advanced semiconductors and quantum computers, is a part of the race between the United States and allied industrial democracies to develop these capabilities ahead of China.

Breton emphasized the need to address concerns surrounding AI, stating that these concerns are applicable to any democracy. He highlighted the importance of explaining the EU's regulatory approach to like-minded partners and friends, such as Japan and the United States.

For Japan, AI could be a solution to the labor shortage caused by population decline. Additionally, it could drive demand for advanced chips, which the government-backed venture Rapidus plans to manufacture as part of an industrial policy aimed at regaining Japan's previous technological leadership.