The Prime Minister of Japan personally endorses the Web3 industry as a national strategy.
The highly anticipated Web3 event 'WebX 2025' officially kicks off today (25th) in Tokyo. This year's event lineup is exceptionally strong, featuring industry leaders like Binance founder CZ, as well as personal attendance from Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Koji Mutoh, reflecting the Japanese government's emphasis on the development of Web3.
In his opening speech, Shigeru Ishiba first pointed out that the world is at a once-in-a-century turning point, and emerging technologies led by Web3 will be the core driving force for Japan to address population decline, achieve economic growth, and realize regional revitalization. He hopes the innovators present can think together about the future of Japan and the world, creating new technological prospects.
A historical turning point: Startups are at the core of solving social issues.
Shigeru Ishiba likened the current era to the industrial revolution of the 18th century, predicting: "The history books of the future will record the 2020s as a great era of industrial revolution." Against the backdrop of increasing geopolitical uncertainty, he pointed out the importance of startups in achieving new economic growth and addressing social issues.
He also proudly stated that Japan's startup ecosystem is thriving. Compared to four years ago, Japan's startups have grown from 16,000 in 2021 to 25,000 this year. In just four years, the number has increased by 9,000.
To this end, the Japanese government will strengthen the 'Five-Year Plan for Startup Development' and continue to promote investment and regulatory reform in digital-related industries, creative industries, and areas such as manufacturing and the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries industries using AI.
Web3 empowers 'Regional Revitalization 2.0' and global cooperation.
Shigeru Ishiba also particularly emphasized that Web3 technology is a key support for his cabinet's 'Regional Revitalization 2.0' policy.
He explained: "We are committed to fully utilizing new technologies to maximize regional potential, not only through hardware but also by leveraging the charm of soft power to create new flows of people."
He cited the example of Ama Town in Shimane Prefecture, a town known for regional revitalization, which has incorporated 'relationship population'—those living outside but concerned about Ama Town—into local management through blockchain technology. Members can participate in tasks via a dedicated app, accumulate 'AMA coins' (which cannot be exchanged for cash), and thereby enhance their level and decision-making influence within the community.
Additionally, the ongoing Osaka Kansai Expo has also introduced related applications of Web3.
In his speech, Shigeru Ishiba also expanded his vision to the global level, mentioning the international conference held in Yokohama last week, where he discussed with presidents, prime ministers, and kings from 34 African countries and passed the (Yokohama Declaration).
He emphasized that assisting Africa's development is crucial not only for Japan but for the future of the entire world. He cited examples of Japanese companies collaborating with local startups in Kenya, Ethiopia, and elsewhere to promote electric motorcycles and establish battery exchange stations powered by renewable energy. This reflects Japan's determination to achieve sustainable growth through technology and local collaboration.
Addressing the challenge of population decline, he calls on the new generation to create the future.
Finally, Shigeru Ishiba also frankly addressed Japan's most severe challenge—population decline.
He pointed out: "The trend of population decline in Japan will not stop, and it is expected that by the year 2100, Japan's population will be halved. One of the main reasons is the over-concentration of population in Tokyo, leading to low marriage and birth rates."
At this significant historical turning point, he posed profound questions and calls to all attendees: "In the reality of population decline, what kind of country do we want to build? Startups, how will you think about creating what kind of Japan and what kind of world?" He believes this is not only a domestic issue for Japan but also concerns how to establish new connections with Africa, South America, Asia, and other parts of the world.
Shigeru Ishiba concluded by saying: "I sincerely hope that through the efforts of everyone present today, innovations related to Web3 will emerge like mushrooms after rain." He hopes this event will give rise to many new projects that address future social and industrial challenges, bringing new momentum to Japan and the world.
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