The Next Horizon of Innovation: AI Robots that Think, Move, and Invent

Donut Robotics is preparing to transform the relationship between humans and artificial intelligence through its vision of “physical AI,” linking advanced software with robotics to turn ideas into reality.

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Japan's economy continues to demonstrate resilience, expanding by 0.3 percent in the second quarter of 2025—an annualized 1.0 percent—driven by corporate investment and exports.

More importantly for its long-term competitiveness, the country remains a global leader in advanced manufacturing and robotics.

Japan produces nearly 38 percent of the world's industrial robots and maintains an operational stock of more than 435,000 units, second only to China. While new installations dipped slightly last year, Japan still installed more than 46,000 units, keeping its position as one of the top robot markets worldwide. In the automotive sector, automation density exceeds 1,500 robots per 10,000 employees, highlighting both Japan's industrial depth and its culture of precision.

Japan's longstanding leadership in robotics dates back to the 1970s, when industrial giants such as FANUC, Yaskawa, and Kawasaki pioneered large-scale automation. Today, robotics is not only a competitive advantage but also a demographic necessity: with nearly 30 percent of Japan's population aged over 65, automation is becoming indispensable to maintain productivity, ensure care for the elderly, and compensate for labor shortages across industries.

Beyond industrial strength, Japan is shaping a trusted framework for artificial intelligence. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has introduced guidelines for "trustworthy AI," and new legislation, the AI Promotion Act, signals government backing for research, development, and deployment. These measures underscore Japan's distinct position in the global technology race: while the United States and China compete for dominance, Japan emphasizes safety, ethics, and precision qualities that resonate with international partners seeking secure and reliable solutions.