TOKYO, Oct. 2 -- Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry issued text of the following statement:
Opening Remarks
Request for Information on Regulations and Systems Hindering the Social Implementation of AI
Let me begin with one point. In advancing Japan's growth strategy, I believe that AI transformation (AX) across all industries will be key and that policies must be formulated and implemented on the premise that AI will serve as a meta-layer and foundation for society and the economy. As Minister in charge of the Social Implementation of AI Transformation (AX), I intend to work with the relevant ministers to accelerate the use of AI in sectors such as healthcare, nursing care, transport and construction, while promoting AI adoption among small- and medium-sized enterprises and micro businesses. As part of these efforts, we have decided to begin calling for information today on regulations and systems that hinder companies seeking to bring new AI-enabled technologies into practical use at an early stage, in coordination with Minister Furukawa, who is responsible for promoting AI and digital reform, and Minister Nakatsuka, who is responsible for regulatory reform. For cases submitted to us that require action, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) will provide hands-on support, including by considering use of the regulatory reform system for business units based on the Industrial Competitiveness Enhancement Act.
Question-and-Answer Session
Strengthening Monitoring of Steel Trade CircumventionQ: At the Ministerial Meeting of the Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity held in the United States on September 30, a framework document that includes measures to strengthen monitoring of steel trade circumvention was adopted. Could you share your assessment of this development and explain how the Government of Japan plans to respond?
A: The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) sent State Minister Miyamoto to attend the Ministerial Meeting of the Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity held in the United States on Wednesday, September 30. State Minister Miyamoto stated that Japan has been stepping up its use of anti-dumping measures on steel products and emphasized the importance of members working together to address steel excess capacity, provided that their actions are consistent with international rules under the WTO and free trade agreements (FTAs). As you noted, following the Ministerial Meeting, a Comprehensive Framework for Joint Action was adopted to address global steel excess capacity. The framework includes measures for members to strengthen monitoring of steel trade circumvention. Based on the framework adopted at the meeting, the Government of Japan will work closely with the relevant ministries and agencies and consider appropriate steps. We will continue to cooperate with other forum members in addressing steel excess capacity.
Last updated:2026-10-06
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
