Japanese companies adopt artificial intelligence at slower pace than Western peers

Japanese companies are using artificial intelligence much more slowly than businesses in the US and UK. This is surprising because Japan has a serious shortage of workers and low productivity. AI could help with both problems.

Japanese firms tend to be very careful about risk. They use AI tools mainly for simple tasks, like writing documents or finding information. They avoid using AI for important decisions or core business operations. Companies worry about mistakes and damage to their reputation.

The Japanese government has passed a new law to encourage businesses to invest more in AI. It wants Japan to become the world's most welcoming country for AI development. However, foreign AI companies have found it hard to adapt their products to Japan's complex working methods.