Digitalisation
Events
Floppy disks & faxes
In contrast to the image of Japan being a technological and industrial powerhouse since the 1980s, the stagnation of its economic growth caused Japan to miss the wave of digitisation and digitalisation. Handling administration on paper, working with floppy discs and faxes is not yet uncommon.
Digital lag
Japan is competitive in ‘hardware’ such as robotics, automotive, and heavy machinery, yet, among peers, they are ranking below average on digital competitiveness, e-government and e-learning. The reason? A low rate of digitisation and shortage in talent and digital skills. The sense of urgency is being felt, but the big impact on organizations, especially on SMEs, combined with the increasing risk of cyber crimes, makes digital transformation, an arduous task.
Digital transformation
Digital transformation (DX), besides green transformation (GX), is a top priority for Japan. To transform into a digital society, also called Society 5.0, the government is investing significantly in technologies such as AI, quantum technology, IoT, 6G and semicon. These technologies are needed for e.g. smart industries, smart services (fintech, e-commerce, e-government, e-marketing) and smart agriculture. Healthcare, retail, finance and mobility have been identified as priority industries in Japan. Digitalisation is also needed for its ambitious climate goals and to improve economic security. In order to transform Japanese companies, the government is encouraging partnerships with innovative foreign parties and startups that offer valuable digital technologies and services.
Dutch digital dedication
The Netherlands is a frontrunner in digital business, digital public services, digital infrastructure, digital sector and human capital, ranking third in the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) in 2022. With governmental support, the private digital sector in the Netherlands is now advancing in new areas such as quantum computing and AI. As such, Dutch digital startups are considered attractive partners for Japanese companies looking to digitally mature.
