Economic security think-tank planning gained new momentum this week as Japan’s government charted a path toward 2027. Officials aim to create a dedicated body that shapes policy on key issues such as semiconductors, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence. They emphasize the importance of coherent analysis to safeguard national interests amid global disruptions.
The proposed think-tank will operate in close partnership with institutions in allied countries like the United States and Australia. Together, these organizations will research supply chain risks, including vulnerable logistics and manufacturing dependencies. Further, the body will foster collaboration between industry, academia, and government to develop actionable economic security strategies.
To oversee this initiative, the Cabinet Office will also consider creating a specialized training program for economic security professionals by fiscal 2026. This move reflects growing awareness that managing future threats requires not only knowledge, but also dedicated talent and institutional capacity.
The interim structure will gather expertise across diplomacy, data security, defense, technology, and economic planning. Through these multidisciplinary insights, policymakers expect more coordinated and resilient strategies. Moreover, they hope to elevate Japan’s strategic autonomy in an increasingly competitive global economy.
Importantly, this plan addresses a longstanding gap in Japan’s approach to comprehensive economic safety. Despite previous steps such as the Economic Security Promotion Act and the creation of an economic security minister, authorities acknowledge that prior frameworks lacked sufficient integration across sectors. Now, they are moving to centralize expertise and reinforce policy coherence.
Looking ahead, economic security think-tank planning will involve regular consultation with domestic stakeholders. Private sector leaders, university researchers, and lawmakers will participate in task forces to ensure diverse input. This inclusive design aims to align both national priorities and community needs.
Meanwhile, experts praised the initiative’s timing. As global supply chain shocks grow more frequent, and emerging technologies reshape global competition, stable policy frameworks become vital. The proposed think-tank could thus lay the foundation for long-term resilience. In summary, Japan is preparing to launch a dedicated economic security think-tank by 2027. With collaboration, expertise, and public-private cooperation at its core, this initiative marks a bold step in strengthening national strategy.
