Japan should heed Nvidia's Jensen Huang's advice and develop its own AI technology, according to him.
In a significant development in the world of artificial intelligence (AI), Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has expressed his support for Japan and India to develop their own AI, emphasizing the potential opportunities in Asia.
During a press briefing on March 19 at Nvidia's GTC conference in San Jose, California, Huang expressed his belief that Japan's unique language and data should not be harvested by a third party for AI creation. Instead, he advocated for Japan to build its own AI, stating that it would be the best way to improve productivity in Japan, given its aging society.
The Japanese government is also making strides in AI development. The Generative AI Accelerator Challenge, launched by the government, aims to provide startups with better access to AI resources. Japan is also investing in generative AI to speed up scientific discoveries in medicine and materials.
Companies like LayerX, which received 100 million dollars for AI-supported automation, and LegalOn Technologies, among others, are planning to develop their own generative AI based on Japanese data and language.
Meanwhile, India has approved a USD 1.25 billion government investment plan to build its computing infrastructure and develop large language models. The Indian investment plan includes a focus on procuring graphics processing units (GPUs) for AI development. Huang, during the same press briefing, expressed his interest in India's plans to buy GPUs for AI development.
The Indian investment plan is not the only AI investment in Asia. Other countries in the region are also investing in building their own AI, indicating a growing trend in Asia.
The investment in AI is not just about economic growth, but also about improving productivity and scientific discoveries. Huang finds the energy in Japan invigorating regarding AI development.
The article was first published on Nikkei Asia and is being republished as part of 36Kr's partnership with Nikkei. Nvidia, as a leading company in the AI sector, sees opportunities in Asia as countries build 'sovereign AI'.
