新社会システム総合研究所 List of News Articles

[Speaker] Ren Taro Hayashi, Senior Manager, Environmental, Energy, and Resource Strategy Group, Research and Consulting Division, Japan Research Institute, Ltd. [Lecture Items] 1. Overview of Data Centers 2. Impact of Data Centers on the Power Industry 3. Policy Trends in Data Centers and Power (1) GX2040 Vision (2) Watt-Bit Collaborative Public-Private Discussion (3) GX Industry Location Working Group (4) Japan Growth Strategy 4. Future Approaches to Power Procurement for Data Center Development 5. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] Masanori Hayashi Evangelist, NTT Docomo Business, Inc. Visiting Researcher, GLOCOM, International University [Key Lecture Content] The application areas of AI are expanding from generative AI to AI agents and physical AI, while the main battlefield of AI infrastructure is shifting from learning-centric to inference-centric. Against the backdrop of rapidly growing AI demand, investments and entries into AI data centers by various businesses are accelerating. However, new challenges are emerging, such as increasing power and cooling demands, responses to data sovereignty, and the utilization of GX strategy regional systems for data center aggregation. This lecture will overview the latest trends in the AI data center market and investment trends, as well as organize technological innovations such as GPUs, liquid cooling, and all-optical networks, along with policy and institutional trends and industrial challenges. Furthermore, it will envision the future of a decentralized AI infrastructure that connects AI factories, data centers, and the edge, and discuss new industrial foundations and future competitive axes through watt-bit collaboration.

[Speaker] Hiroo Ito, Head of Sales Division, CS Business Unit, IDEMIA Japan, Inc. [Key Lecture Content] With the advancement of quantum computers, the possibility that conventional cryptographic techniques may be easily broken in the future has been increasing recently. The risk of attacks such as 'Harvest Now, Decrypt Later' has already become clear, and efforts towards Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) have begun. Rather than discussing when Q-Day (the specific day when current cryptographic techniques will be broken by quantum computers) will occur, we will introduce the need to immediately start considering the transition to PQC and how the industry should catch up with the timeline, especially for critical infrastructure. [Lecture Items] 1. Overview of the transition to PQC 2. Introduction to IDEMIA Secure Transaction solutions 3. Insights into market trends 4. Guidelines from various countries 5. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Lecture Topics] 1. Strengthening Japan's Cyber Response Capabilities Ayumi Inoue, Deputy Director, National Cyber Security Office, Cabinet Secretariat 2. The Situation of Threats in Cyberspace and Police Initiatives Chihiro Sakai, Deputy Director, Cyber Police Bureau, National Police Agency 3. Enhancing Cybersecurity in the Financial Sector Mitsuhiko Kamimura, Deputy Director, IT Cyber and Economic Security Management Office, Banking and Securities Supervision Bureau, Financial Services Agency 4. Cybersecurity Policy in the Information and Communication Sector Kiyoshi Samejima, Deputy Director, Cybersecurity Coordination Office, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications

[Instructor] Miki Yoshinobu, President and CEO of Toraizu Co., Ltd. (Former Chief of Staff at SoftBank) [Key Lecture Content] During his time as Chief of Staff at SoftBank, the instructor developed a "super practical project management technique to reach goals in the shortest and fastest way" after being given numerous challenging projects by President Masayoshi Son. "This project management skill is not something that is only necessary for special projects. In today's rapidly changing environment, routine work is fundamentally disappearing. It is becoming essential to continuously reassess everything from a zero-based perspective. In other words, whether it's creating materials requested by a superior or engaging in sales activities, everything has become 'project-like work.' Therefore, in this seminar, we will clearly explain the basics of project management and practical methods for the field."

[Speaker] Chief Expert Ji Hui, Future Creation Center, Nomura Research Institute, Inc. [Key Lecture Content] *We plan to update with the latest information based on field research as necessary.* At the World Artificial Intelligence Conference held in Shanghai in July 2026, Huawei unveiled its next-generation computing infrastructure products based on its proprietary AI chips, attracting significant attention. Amid ongoing U.S. export restrictions on advanced semiconductors, Huawei demonstrated its approach to overcoming the performance limits of standalone chips through "systems engineering," showcasing its commitment to leading the development of an autonomous AI ecosystem in China, encompassing computing infrastructure, cloud, OS, and AI models. Based on the latest field research results, this lecture will explain the latest trends in Huawei's AI strategy (computing infrastructure, AI models: AI social implementation, AI ecosystem, etc.) in the context of the overall landscape of China's AI industry. [Lecture Topics] 1. Current State of China's AI Industry 2. Progress in Domestic Production of Infrastructure 3. Huawei's Full-Stack AI Ecosystem 4. Future Prospects 5. Q&A

[Speaker] Naomi Suzuki, Assistant Manager and Chief Market Analyst, Sumitomo Corporation Global Research, Economic Department [Key Lecture Content] The benchmark price of copper has risen by more than 40% over the past year (as of September 2026). Copper has traditionally been viewed as a commodity sensitive to economic cycles; however, despite the prolonged downturn in the Chinese economy, the largest consumer of copper, prices remain high. This is due to the emergence of new demand driven by electrification and AI data centers, as well as supply constraints related to mining production, refining, and logistics. The strategic importance of copper, which is essential for energy transition and new technologies, continues to grow. At the same time, geopolitical tensions have increased recently, prompting various countries to implement policy measures to secure supply. In this lecture, we will organize and explain the changes in the supply-demand structure of the copper market, supply constraints, and trends in policies, taking into account the global situation and overall movements in the commodity market. [Lecture Items] 1. Global Situation Surrounding Copper and the Commodity Market 2. The Shortage of Copper 3. Manifestation of Supply Constraints 4. The Importance of Copper as a Critical Mineral - Resource Nationalism and Policy Competition 5. Risks in the Copper Market and Future Outlook 6. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] Mizutani Masataka Senior Researcher Energy Comprehensive Engineering Research Institute, General Incorporated Foundation Carbon Neutral Technology Center, Power System Group [Key Lecture Content] As discussions progress towards the revision of the GHG Protocol Scope 2, elements such as "when and where the electricity was generated" are gaining attention in corporate renewable energy procurement and CO2 emissions calculations. Additionally, with the expansion of renewable energy adoption, the CO2 emission intensity of electricity has begun to fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day and region. In this lecture, we will organize topics such as hourly matching, deliverability, and standard supply services (SSS) that are being discussed in the Scope 2 revision, and introduce examples of hourly CO2 emission intensities provided both domestically and internationally. Furthermore, through analysis examples using publicly available data, such as office buildings and EV charging, we will explain what can be revealed through hourly evaluations and consider the implications and responses for future renewable energy procurement, non-fossil certificates, and PPAs.

[Lecturer] Chairman of the Stationary Battery Optimization and Safety Promotion Liaison Committee (BESST) Representative Director / Osaka University Visiting Professor Yoshiyuki Nishimura Advisor of Captex Co., Ltd. Masayuki Yasuda [Key Lecture Content] Since the late 2010s, the introduction of stationary batteries has become more widespread, particularly in Europe, the United States, South Korea, and China, leading to an increase in fire incidents and construction and operational troubles. In Japan, the market for grid-connected batteries has been rapidly expanding since the 2020s. Although the development of various standards and guidelines is progressing, the entry of various operators, not just those familiar with batteries, continues, necessitating careful attention in areas such as product selection, safety verification, and operational management. This time, while overviewing the role of batteries in Japan's power system, their essential value, and current issues, we will explain the correct ways to select and use batteries in the future, including how to formulate business strategies that encompass medium- to long-term business models.

[Speaker] Akiko Ishii, Chief Researcher, Overseas Business Promotion Group, GX Headquarters, Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc. [Key Lecture Content] In ASEAN countries, the formation of carbon market rules aimed at achieving the Paris Agreement goals and strengthening the competitiveness of domestic industries is accelerating, transitioning from system design to the implementation and operation phase. In addition to domestic systems such as carbon taxes and emissions trading systems (ETS), the development of rules for the international transfer and use of carbon credits is also progressing, requiring Japanese companies to respond strategically from both regulatory compliance and market opportunity perspectives. This lecture will provide the latest information on the system design related to carbon pricing in ASEAN. [Lecture Items] 1. System design of carbon pricing systems advancing in ASEAN 2. Latest trends in rule formation regarding carbon credit trading 3. The changing carbon credit market 4. Perspective shifts required for Japanese companies 5. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Toru Kumagai, Journalist from Germany [Lecture Topics] 1. Mandatory Digital Battery Passport in the EU 2. EU Battery Regulation and Eco-Design Regulation 3. European Battery Market 4. Expansion of Digital Product Passport (DPP) to Other Products 5. The Background of DPP is the European Green Deal 6. The EU Aims to Transition to a Circular Economy and Strengthen Economic Security 7. Q&A

[Lecturers] Atsuo Fukushima, Attorney at Nishimura & Asahi Law Firm, Foreign Law Joint Enterprise Brussels Ayaka Hiraki, Policy Analyst [Key Lecture Content] The European Union (EU) announced the "Technological Sovereignty Package" in June 2026. Regarding strategic technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductors, it aims to reduce excessive dependence on external sources through the Semiconductor Act 2.0 and the Cloud and AI Development Act (CADA), while developing, controlling, and expanding necessary technologies and infrastructure on its own, and ensuring options for users. This initiative is set against the backdrop of technological and industrial competition with China, as well as friction over digital policies between Europe and the United States that became apparent during the Trump administration. While these proposals are attracting attention as industrial development strategies utilizing public procurement and public support, they do not uniformly exclude foreign companies; there remains room for participation for companies that meet certain criteria. This lecture will overview the geopolitical background and policy trends surrounding technological sovereignty, organize institutional and legal issues, and consider the impact on Japanese companies and the direction of future responses. [Lecture Items] Part One: Geopolitical Section Part Two: Legal and Practical Section

[Instructor] Takahiro Ugajin, Attorney at Ugajin International Law Office (Japan, New York State) [Key Lecture Content] The number of internal whistleblowing and harassment reports has been increasing year by year, and the content has become increasingly complex and difficult, placing a growing burden on those responsible for handling these reports. However, even when conducting investigations into internal whistleblowing, there are few opportunities to learn practical know-how regarding the flow of the investigation, the order and types of questions to ask during interviews, what other materials should be collected aside from interviews, and how to determine the existence of facts based on the investigation results. Therefore, in this seminar, the instructor, an attorney who has been involved in numerous harassment investigation cases, will share practical investigation know-how that can be immediately applied, based on specific examples, including the flow of harassment and internal investigations, the order of interviews, methods of questioning, and methods of fact-finding.

[Speaker] Mr. Takumi Aida, Analyst, Advanced Technology Lab, Japan Research Institute, Ltd. [Key Lecture Content] In light of the further utilization of satellite data and the construction of communication networks to support space and lunar activities, efforts are underway to establish space (orbital) data centers or lunar data centers. Although referred to as data centers, the concept focuses on the integrated use of storage mounted on satellites and the securing of resources through edge computing. Given this background, the use cases for space and lunar data centers often involve the autonomy of space activities and exploration, as well as backups in preparation for disaster and geopolitical risks. Recently, with the expansion of AI utilization, concepts have emerged for establishing AI infrastructure in space due to challenges related to power and water consumption on the ground and location constraints. In this lecture, an overview of space and lunar data centers will be organized, and the current assumed use cases will be introduced. Additionally, based on the trends of major players and financial institutions, the future technological direction and business possibilities will be discussed.

[Speaker] Mr. Tsuyoshi Morioka, Chief Analyst, Infcurion Inc. [Key Lecture Content] With the advancement of "Embedded Finance," where financial functions naturally integrate into various services, payments have become a strategic element that influences business models for non-financial companies as well. As digital-native experiences become the norm, the "reorganization of economic zones" involving finance, retail, e-commerce, and telecommunications is accelerating. In this lecture, based on the latest proprietary research data, we will capture changes in consumer and corporate behavior and explain the key points of embedded finance strategies for both consumer and B2B businesses. Furthermore, we will present a vision of the future brought about by next-generation technologies such as stablecoins and AI agents, providing practical insights for utilizing and implementing payment and financial functions in one's own services.

[Instructor] Former Consultant Registered with the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry Former Senior Officer, Business Support Division, Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs Takahiro Nagasaki, Head of Attain Management Consulting [Key Lecture Content] As the labor population decreases, many companies face the significant challenge of maximizing the potential of senior talent after re-employment. In light of the "Revised Act on Stabilization of Employment of Older Persons" and the new "Basic Policy for Employment Stabilization Measures for Older Persons" announced by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in 2026 (aiming for a 40% implementation rate of employment security measures for those up to 70 years old), as well as the "Guidelines for Preventing Labor Accidents Among Older Workers," we will delve into the benefits of utilizing senior talent and the current issues surrounding their employment, based on real examples from years of consulting experience and unique research data. Furthermore, we will explain specific system designs to support the active participation of senior talent and strategies for supporting their engagement through training programs, along with successful case studies.

[Speaker] Tadashi Takahara, Ph.D. (Engineering) President and CEO of Tech-T Inc. (Formerly Toyota Motor Corporation / Samsung SDI) [Lecture Topics] 1. Confirmation of the positioning of Chinese cars in the global market 2. Huawei HIMA and "Tier-1 (minus 1)" 3. Huawei's sales revolution and customer touchpoints 4. HIMA's vehicle model and type strategy 5. Overview of Toyota Motor Corporation's strategy in China: new factories, Lexus Shanghai, etc. 6. Insights for Japanese companies 7. Q&A

[Lecture Topics] 1. Understanding the Current State of Smart Homes from an Energy Perspective and Developments Starting from the Electricity Retail Business Yumiko Watanabe, Director, GX Promotion Department, Strategy Headquarters, Looop Inc. 2. The Future of Smart Homes is Determined by Buildings - The Underlying Structural Transformation of Building DX Kaoru Komatsuda, Director, Service Development Department, IoT Development Headquarters, ACCESS Inc. 3. Next-Generation Marketing that Decodes 24h360-degree Living through the Co-Creation Smart Home Project 'HAUS UPDATA' Yuka Taniguchi, Senior Planner, Data Technology Center, Dentsu Inc. 4. Panel Discussion: The Era of AI Homes Opened by Standardization and Latest Technologies - Living and New Business Connected Across Layers Coordinator: Fumimasa Shinkai, CEO, X-HEMISTRY Inc. Panelists: Yumiko Watanabe, Looop Inc. / Kaoru Komatsuda, ACCESS Inc. / Yuka Taniguchi, Dentsu Inc.

[Lecturer] Koichi Iwama, Professor, Faculty of Economics and Management, Wako University / Chairman, Resource Economics Committee, Petroleum Technology Association [Key Lecture Content] From the perspective of achieving simultaneous decarbonization policies, stable energy supply, and reduced energy costs, what will happen to coal prices after the summer of 2026? The potential of high-efficiency coal-fired power generation in Japan, including USC (Ultra-Supercritical Coal Power Generation) and IGCC (Integrated Coal Gasification Combined Cycle), as well as the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions through the co-firing of ammonia in coal-fired power generation. This lecture will clearly and thoroughly explain the business opportunities for Japanese companies involved in coal-fired power generation, considering long-term coal-fired power generation in Asia and the Trump administration's focus on the coal industry.

[Lecturers] PwC Consulting LLC TMT Director Hiroshi Nonaka TRC Director Ryo Nunome TMT Senior Manager Miyu Ouchi [Key Lecture Content] In response to the increasingly complex telecommunications infrastructure due to 5G, virtualization, and cloudification, generative AI is enhancing phishing, vulnerability exploration, impersonation, and attack automation, significantly changing the defensive assumptions of critical infrastructure operators. Additionally, societal demands are increasing regarding economic security, supply chain risks, third-party management, and accountability during disruptions. In this lecture, we will explain the key points of implementing and establishing governance and controls required in the field of telecommunications infrastructure, taking a practical perspective in light of these environmental changes.

[Speaker] Tatsuro Saito, Chief Researcher, Advanced Technology Center, Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc. [Key Lecture Content] With the rapid spread of AI technologies, including generative AI, data centers are becoming a factor pushing up electricity demand in Japan. To advance the social implementation of AI under power constraints, it is necessary to consider the increase in computational demand and the improvement of power efficiency as a unified issue. In this lecture, we will take a broad view of the impact on Japan's electricity supply and demand based on future scenarios for AI demand and the advancements in semiconductor and data center technologies that support it. Furthermore, we will organize the power-related effects, latest technological trends, and implementation challenges of photonic-electronic convergence technology, which is expected to be a promising technology for next-generation data centers, and explain the prospects for realizing a sustainable AI society. [Lecture Items] 1. The structure of how the spread of generative AI increases electricity demand 2. How to estimate the impact on Japan's electricity supply and demand 3. Four semiconductor technologies supporting sustainable AI 4. What and how much power savings can photonic-electronic convergence achieve? 5. Current status towards the practical application of photonic-electronic convergence 6. Future prospects and challenges in the implementation of photonic-electronic convergence, and expectations for Japanese companies 7. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Riku Ikeda, RE Manager, Platform Business Division, Digital Grid Inc. [Key Lecture Content] Currently, rule-making towards a decarbonized society has entered a new phase globally. Particularly noteworthy is the "revision of the GHG Protocol." In this seminar, we will unravel the contents of the ongoing discussions regarding the GHG Protocol (especially Scope 2) and delve deeply into questions such as "What does this require from power providers and consumers?" and "Why must businesses respond swiftly to these rule changes now?" Additionally, we will present Digital Grid's current position in 2026 and future vision towards a world without power constraints, along with the latest initiatives in "renewable energy trading" and "battery business." [Lecture Items] 1. The current position of Digital Grid and its evolution over the next two years starting in 2024 2. [Today's Highlight] The revision of the GHG Protocol and its impact on the supply chain 3. The changing electricity market and the forefront of the "battery business" 4. Next-generation decarbonization solutions envisioned by Digital Grid 5. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Technical Advisor Shikenoh Furuno, Japan Automobile Parts Industry Association [Key Lecture Content] In February 2026, the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran, effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, which led to skyrocketing prices of crude oil, naphtha, and other petroleum products, severely impacting the global economy. While renewable energy (renewables) is becoming more widespread, the reality of the energy crisis has highlighted the world's continued heavy reliance on crude oil. This has prompted a reevaluation of the value of BEVs, revealing distinct regional differences in the market. While Europe, Japan, and Southeast Asia are experiencing growth, the U.S. continues to see a contraction. In China, REEVs are also on the rise, and the movement towards a hydrogen society utilizing surplus renewable energy is accelerating. Moreover, with the evolution of AI and SoC, the value of cars is shifting from hardware to software, and the development of SDVs and autonomous driving is rapidly advancing. However, there are also concerns about being technology-driven. This lecture will organize these changes and provide an outlook on the future mobility society, including energy considerations.

[Instructor] Representative of Digital Infrastructure Consulting LLC (DIRC) President of Regenerative Infrastructure Inc. (R11i) Mr. Takashi Furuta [Key Lecture Content] The data center market, which has continued to grow based on the internet and cloud, is expected to see a further explosive increase in demand due to the extensive use of computational resources that constitute generative AI. Meanwhile, in the Japanese market, foreign funds and global operators are leading development, while Japanese companies face challenges such as revenue opportunities, business continuity through exit strategies, reduced flexibility due to early securing of power, constraints of grid electricity, soaring construction costs, and coexistence with local communities. This lecture will organize these structural challenges and explore integrated location strategies for power, communication, and computational resources in the AI era, conditions for regional dispersion to areas like Hokkaido and Kyushu, and the business strategies that Japanese players should adopt.

[Lecture Topics] 1. Introduction to the "Mobility Roadmap 2026" Seiji Muto, Senior Advisor to the Director-General, Mobility Division, National Services Group, Digital Agency 2. Regional Transportation DX for Resolving "Transportation Gaps" Akihiro Watanabe, Deputy Director of the Mobility Services Promotion Division, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism 3. Nissan's Efforts Towards the Practical Implementation of Mobility Services Yoshirou Takamatsu, Senior Researcher, Mobility Society & AI Research Institute, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. 4. Challenges and Measures for the Social Implementation of Autonomous Driving Yuki Inoue, LPL for Autonomous Driving Business Planning, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. 5. Waymo's Initiatives: The Cutting Edge of Fully Autonomous Driving Commercialization Mika Yamamoto, Head of Policy & Government Affairs, Japan and Asia-Pacific, Waymo

[Lecture Topics] 1. Regarding the SIP Phase 3 "Construction of a Smart Mobility Platform" Masaki Yahata, Policy Researcher, Cabinet Office, Office for Promotion of Science and Technology Innovation (in charge of Social System Infrastructure) 2. Initiatives by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications on Communication Infrastructure Supporting Autonomous Driving Society Yudai Matsuo, Section Chief, Mobile Communications Division, Radio Department, Telecommunications Bureau, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications 3. NTT's Initiatives on Autonomous Driving and Smart Mobility Minako Tsumenaga, Executive Officer, Research and Development Marketing Headquarters, Alliance Division, NTT Corporation / Director, NTT Mobility Corporation 4. Toyota's Efforts Towards Zero Traffic Accidents Mitsuo Shida, Chief, Advanced Safety Systems Reform Department, Toyota Motor Corporation

[Speaker] Hideo Tagami, Director of Telecom Sales, NVIDIA Corporation, Strategic Account Division [Key Lecture Content] The rapid development of generative AI has made it urgent to establish AI data centers for Agentic AI and Physical AI, as well as high-speed, wide-bandwidth communication networks. Attention is increasing towards the distributed AI infrastructure concept "AI GRID." In this lecture, we will explain the approach for telecom operators to realize AI GRID by utilizing base stations and communication facilities along with next-generation networks, transforming into sovereign AI platform providers. We will also consider the challenges and solutions related to AI implementation and data governance faced by user companies utilizing these technologies. [Lecture Items] 1. Background of the emergence of AI GRID 2. Approach to AI GRID by telecom operators 3. NVIDIA's full-stack solution supporting AI GRID 4. Benefits of AI GRID for user companies 5. Approaches from both providers and users 6. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Yusuke Hironaka, Second Department, Mobility and Energy Device Division, Fuji Keizai Co., Ltd. [Key Lecture Content] As the market for lithium-ion batteries (LiB) continues to expand, developments are being made to improve LiB performance, including enhancements in safety, energy density, and operating temperature range. Among these, all-solid-state batteries, which replace the liquid electrolyte of LiB with solid electrolytes, are expected to achieve performance improvements while reducing the risk of fire associated with LiB, leading to future practical applications and market expansion. However, there are many challenges to the practical application and market expansion of all-solid-state batteries, and one of the technologies being developed to address these challenges in the short term is semi-solid batteries. In this lecture, against the backdrop of the aforementioned market trends, I will explain the current status of semi-solid batteries, their performance and application suitability compared to liquid-state LiB and all-solid-state batteries, as well as future prospects.

[Speaker] Hidetoshi Amano, Senior Manager, New Business Strategy Team, Fortience Consulting Co., Ltd. [Key Lecture Content] "Data Monetization," which transforms accumulated data within companies into revenue and profit. In recent years, the evolution of generative AI has significantly changed the methods of achieving this. While the potential for extracting meaning from non-structured data such as documents, images, and drawings, which were previously difficult to utilize, is expanding while reducing the burden of data organization, AI is now taking on roles in analysis, proposal, and even action. In this lecture, we will organize the basic patterns and success principles of data monetization, discuss what changes generative AI brings, and explain how companies should build a system to "earn with data," incorporating the latest case studies and practical knowledge.

[Speaker] CEO of AnPrenergy Co., Ltd. Director of the Japan Renewable Energy Regional Resource Development Organization, Mr. Takashi Muratani [Lecture Items] 1. Starting with three questions from the field 2. September 1, October 1, and the next - System changes coming in three stages 3. Viewing "distortions" through numbers 4. Pathways to prevention - Three markets + Negativity-Positivity type distribution 5. Defensive operations and system risks 6. Summary - Two changes by 10/1, three adjustments by the end of the year 7. Q&A / Business card exchange *As a seminar participation benefit, a "Management Checklist" will be provided.

[Instructor] Takuya Sugawara, Head of AI Business, Sanshin Co., Ltd. [Key Lecture Content] Voices such as "We can't hire people even if we post job openings" and "We don't have the capacity for training" are not uncommon in the management scenes of small and medium-sized enterprises. To break the labor shortage, what is needed is not to increase the number of people but to increase "the capabilities of the employees we currently have." In this seminar, we will organize the use of "AI agents" that take on daily tasks such as document creation and data processing, thereby enhancing the responsiveness of each employee as a management system. We will explain in an easy-to-understand manner the concept of reallocating time gained through efficiency improvements to tasks that have been postponed, such as information gathering, internal analysis, and information dissemination, as well as how to elevate the skills of both veteran and younger employees through dialogue with AI, and provide real examples that illustrate the changes after implementation. This seminar can be utilized as material for business owners and management planners to consider a system that simultaneously balances defensive and offensive strategies.

[Instructor] Attorney Shinya Tsuchiya, Ishizaki & Yamanaka Law Office [Key Lecture Content] When various problematic behaviors arise from employees, such as poor work attitude, harassment, and lack of cooperation, if the employer mismanages the response, it can significantly undermine workplace order and operational efficiency, and there is also a possibility that the legal validity of disciplinary actions or personnel measures taken against the employee in question may be denied. To avoid such risks, appropriate and consistent responses based on employment regulations and internal systems are required. On the other hand, dealing with "problematic employees" can often place a significant psychological and practical burden on busy supervisors and HR personnel. In order to maintain smooth business operations, support for those responding and organizational preparedness have become essential in today's environment. In this seminar, we will systematically organize practical knowledge useful in the field by considering specific scenarios, focusing on the legal points and practical strategies to keep in mind when responding to various types of "problematic employees" that have been emerging recently.

[Lecturer] Anderson Mori & Tomotsune Foreign Law Joint Enterprise Partner Attorney Fumiya Utagawa [Key Lecture Content] Thermal power generation occupies an important position for ensuring stable electricity supply, but there is also a social demand for decarbonization. In addition to the establishment and replacement of LNG-fired power plants, the utilization of hydrogen and ammonia as fuels and the application of CCS are also anticipated. Recently, there have been revisions to the system in preparation for the fourth round of the long-term decarbonized power source auction and the full implementation of the CCS Business Act. In this lecture, the instructor, who has been involved in the Japanese government's policies at the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy until June of this year, will explain the challenges and considerations in project formation, focusing on the utilization of hydrogen, ammonia, and CCS. [Lecture Items] 1. Overview of policy trends regarding decarbonized thermal power 2. System revisions for the fourth round of the long-term decarbonized power source auction 3. Introduction of preliminary examination based on the Hydrogen Society Promotion Act 4. Full implementation of the CCS Business Act 5. Considerations for project formation 6. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Accenture Ltd. Managing Director, Industry and Enterprise, Yoshiyuki Fujino Principal Director, Digital Core, Strategy, Akihito Masuda [Key Lecture Content] With the rapid spread of AI, the infrastructure supporting urban competitiveness is transitioning from physical foundations such as roads and water supply and sewage systems to a "Watt-Bit Collaboration" that integrates computation (bits), power (watts), and communication into a single design. The idea of placing data centers in areas with surplus power and delivering only the results as bits redefines the location of data centers, power systems, communication networks, and even urban and regional development, fundamentally changing the design philosophy of social infrastructure. This lecture will explain the role that private companies can play and the strategies for achieving this, taking into account overseas leading examples. [Lecture Items] 1. Watt-Bit Collaboration - The Core of Urban Infrastructure Reorganization 2. The Significance of Integrating Computation, Power, and Communication in Three Layers 3. The Speed of Change Observed in Overseas Leading Examples 4. Changes in Collaboration with Government Agencies and Local Governments 5. The Next Move for Private Companies - Points of Strategic Shift 6. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Key Lecture Content] 1. Overview of the Law Amending Part of the Act on the Protection of Personal Information (Amendment of 2023) Kento Kido, Deputy Director, Personal Information Protection Commission 1. Background leading to the enactment of the amended law 2. Amendment Content [1] (Promotion of Proper Data Utilization) 3. Amendment Content [2] (Regulations Responding Appropriately to Risks) 4. Amendment Content [3] (Prevention of Improper Use, etc.) 5. Amendment Content [4] (Regulations to Ensure the Effectiveness of Compliance) 6. Towards the Implementation of the Amended Law (Status of Consideration for Ordinances, Regulations, Guidelines, etc.) 7. Q&A / Business Card Exchange 2. Key Points for Practical Response to the Implementation of the Amended Law Jun Okada, Partner Attorney, Mori Hamada & Matsumoto Law Firm 1. Overall Perspective on Practical Response Based on the Amended Law 2. Specific Discussion [1]: Statistical Exceptions and AI 3. Specific Discussion [2]: Handling of Children's Personal Information, etc. 4. Specific Discussion [3]: Administrative Fines 5. Specific Discussion [4]: Other Individual Issues 6. Timeline and To-Do List for Full Implementation 7. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] Kazuki Miyamoto, Representative/Analyst, VentureClef, USA [Key Lecture Content] The frontier model in the United States is evolving at an unexpected speed. AI agents based on the frontier model have completely transformed business forms in companies. Chinese companies are developing large-scale open source projects, and their performance is approaching that of the U.S. model. Meanwhile, U.S. companies have begun developing open source, leading to a direct confrontation between the U.S. and China. The seminar will examine the frontier models of both countries and explain the latest technologies and important trends. It will organize points on how Japanese companies should perceive the U.S.-China AI development competition from technological and business perspectives. It will also consider strategies for companies to succeed in the AI era, including the differentiation between the U.S. and Chinese models, as well as the advantages and challenges of open source versus closed source. [Lecture Items] <1> Frontier Model (USA) <2> Frontier Model (China) <3> Technology Trends and AI Strategies for Japanese Companies <4> Q&A

[Lecturers] Daisuke Tateno, Partner, Arthur D. Little Japan K.K. Akihiro Nagayama, Principal [Key Lecture Content] Drones, AI, software, satellites, and electronic warfare are fundamentally changing the way wars are fought, and the defense industry is currently transitioning from a heavy and traditional model to one centered around AI, software, data, and unmanned systems. In the United States, emerging companies like Palantir and Anduril, which are software-driven, are challenging existing defense firms. In Japan, structural changes are beginning with the Defense Capability Development Plan, the Defense Industry Base Strengthening Act, and the entry of startups. This seminar will discuss the changes in the global security environment and industrial structure, the strategies of advanced players both domestically and internationally, and the areas where Japanese companies can succeed, including dual-use, collaboration with software companies, M&A and alliances, and talent strategies. We will consider how to view change not as a threat but as a growth opportunity, and how to construct a new Japanese defense industry from a management perspective.

[Instructor] Innovation Analyst Andy Kondo [Key Lecture Content] *The latest content will be added (changed) as appropriate based on the on-site survey of IAA Transportation 2026.* From September 15 to 20, 2026, the largest commercial vehicle exhibition in Europe, IAA Transportation, will be held in Hanover, Germany. It is a gathering place for manufacturers of commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses, as well as the parts, energy, and software that support them, occurring every two years. The cost structure of logistics, urban transportation and the environment, energy transition, decarbonization efforts, and a microcosm of the industry will reveal the future business environment just a step ahead. In this seminar, an innovation analyst who has been observing major global exhibitions such as CES and Hannover Messe for many years will report shortly after the event based on on-site coverage. Has autonomous driving become the main focus in commercial vehicles? Where is the energy transition for large vehicles settling in terms of batteries, hydrogen, and alternative fuels? How far have Chinese companies come? Based on photos taken at the venue and observations of actual products, the seminar will delve into the implications for Japanese companies.

[Instructor] Partner Ryoji Mori, Eichi Law Office [Key Lecture Content] This lecture will explain the revised Personal Information Protection Act of 2028. The three-year review this time is a major revision, and it is essential to first understand where and how the revisions have been made, as well as the overall picture of the amendments. Next, we will explain the individual amendments that are practically important. The key points are as follows, but it is important to note that both the strengthening and relaxation of obligations are occurring simultaneously, increasing overall complexity. At the time of the lecture, it is expected that subordinate laws and guidelines will not yet be published, but we will discuss points that require attention upon publication. We will distinguish between what is necessary across businesses and what varies by industry. [Lecture Items] 1. Expansion of consent exceptions: Relaxation of the difficulty of obtaining consent and expansion of academic research institutions 2. Statistical exceptions: System content and how to read complex provisions (plus learning about acceptability from controversies) 3. Strengthening regulations on biometric information and children's information: Caution required for age verification 4. Contactable personal-related information: Changes in external transmission responses 5. Review of outsourcing regulations: Addition and removal of obligations for contractors 6. Administrative fines: Narrow target range and low amounts (not worth fearing) 7. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Ayaka Motomura, Consultant, Business Transformation Unit, NTT Data Management Research Institute [Key Lecture Content] With the advancement of Physical AI, telecommunications carriers have the opportunity to evolve from being "companies that provide lines" to companies that connect and control AI and the physical world in real-time. This seminar will organize the changes in communication demand brought about by Physical AI and the business opportunities for telecommunications carriers, while explaining the role of AIOps as the first step towards entry. Furthermore, it will discuss strategies for monetizing in the Physical AI market by deploying the operational intelligence accumulated through AIOps to network APIs and industry-specific services, as well as the layers that telecommunications carriers should hold. [Lecture Topics] Chapter 1: The Competitive Structure of the "Real World" Rewritten by Physical AI Chapter 2: Reasons Why Opportunities for "Reversal" Arise for Telecommunications Carriers in the Era of Physical AI Chapter 3: The First Step Towards Physical AI Chapter 4: Shifting AIOps from "Defense" to "Offense" Chapter 5: The Layers to Hold in the Era of Physical AI [Q&A / Business Card Exchange]

[Speakers] Nomura Research Institute, Ltd. Global Manufacturing Consulting Department Group Manager Hirokazu Shimo Senior Consultant Shoki Tokugawa Senior Consultant Wataru Hashimoto Consultant Masaaki Amano Consultant Tomoya Nakamura [Presentation Items] 1. Key Development Themes of Major OEMs 2. Development Approaches of Each OEM 2-1. Toyota 2-2. Tesla 2-3. Suzuki 2-4. Nissan 2-5. Honda 3. Development Approaches of Suppliers 4. Key Points for Strengthening Development Capabilities 5. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] Yoichiro Okuyama, Senior Researcher, Research Department, Hamagin Research Institute, Inc. [Key Lecture Content] In China, the operation of autonomous taxis began in 2021, and now fully unmanned robo-taxis are running in cities like Beijing and Shenzhen. Experiencing a ride reveals the evolution of technology through natural acceleration, smooth steering, and seamless deceleration. Currently, there are several thousand vehicles in operation, but projections suggest that by 2030, this number could exceed one million, accounting for 70% of the global total. What are the underlying factors driving the social implementation of robo-taxis in China? By incorporating local test ride experiences, we will analyze the revenue situation of robo-taxi operating companies and the outlook for market expansion based on data, exploring their future potential. [Lecture Items] 1. Personal experiences of test riding robo-taxis in China 2. Trends in the market size of robo-taxis in China and globally 3. Background of the advancing social implementation of robo-taxis in China 4. Public acceptance and actual usage 5. Performance and challenges of major robo-taxi companies 6. Will robo-taxis become widespread in Japan as well? 7. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Instructor] Paulstar Communications Inc. Representative Director Koji Kita [Key Lecture Content] Have you ever felt that, despite entrusting work to Generation Z and young employees, they "don't seem to get started," "don't lead to the expected results," or "it's ultimately faster to do it myself"? Behind these situations are various factors, including the recognition gap between supervisors and young employees regarding "entrusting and being entrusted," how to communicate the purpose of the work, the approach, and the scope of discretion, as well as how to follow up after delegating tasks. In this seminar, we will practically explain "how to delegate work" to elicit proactive behavior, taking into account the perspectives and behavioral characteristics of Generation Z and young employees. We will share specific management techniques to help supervisors break free from the burden of work, encourage the autonomy and growth of young employees, and steadily lead to results.

[Instructor] Attorney Toshiyuki Saito, TMI Comprehensive Legal Office [Key Lecture Content] In 2026, Japan will enact a revised Space Activities Act, the FCC in the United States will amend satellite licensing regulations, and discussions are progressing on the EU Space Bill, which could apply to extraterritorial companies in Europe. The legal framework concerning space is undergoing a significant transformation globally. Therefore, for companies considering entry into or investment in space-related businesses, as well as those already involved in the space business, understanding the latest regulations is essential for both risk management and seizing business opportunities. In this seminar, based on practical experience as an attorney and a government official specializing in space law, we will clearly explain the overall picture of the space law systems in Japan, the U.S., and Europe, as well as the latest trends. We will also organize practical points regarding space-related contracts, including launch contracts, providing actionable insights that can be utilized from the next day. We welcome participants from beginners in the space business to practical staff.

[Speaker] Yoichiro Itakura, Partner Attorney at Hikari General Law Office 1. Revisions to the Personal Information Protection Act in 2028 (1) Promotion of appropriate data utilization (creation of statistical information, etc.) (2) Regulations adapted to risks (handling of personal information of individuals under 16) (3) Handling of personal data by contractors, etc. (4) Prevention of improper use, etc. (handling of contactable personal-related information, etc.) (5) Ensuring the effectiveness of compliance with regulations (orders for payment of surcharges, etc.) 2. Revisions to the Digital Administration Promotion Act, etc. 3. Other trends related to personal information protection 4. Q&A