A Kawasaki Heavy Industries humanoid platform places a garbage bag in a trash can during an exhibition in Tokyo last December. Japan has long led in humanoid robotics and is well positioned to supply the components behind next-generation automation systems. | REUTERS

In June, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi unveiled a long-term economic development plan calling for more than ¥370 trillion ($2.3 trillion) in public and private investment in 17 “strategic sectors” through 2041. The plan aims to create a “strong and prosperous investment framework” and earmarks ¥101.6 trillion for artificial intelligence and semiconductors alone, alongside investments in defense, space, shipbuilding and other strategic industries.

The challenge now is to turn that ambition into sustainable growth by strengthening economic security and developing technologies and industries that can compete globally.…