The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent in Japan, particularly in sectors facing labor shortages due to the country's aging and shrinking population. Here's how AI is being utilized in various industries:
Manufacturing and Food Production: Companies like Eat&Holdings are incorporating AI-powered solutions to streamline production processes and reduce reliance on manual labor. For example, AI-powered cameras are used to detect faulty products, such as misshapen vegetables or damaged dumplings, leading to increased efficiency and productivity.
Agriculture: In the farming sector, where the average age of farmers is rising, AI is being used for early detection and prevention of diseases, pests, and weeds. Smartphone apps like Nichino AI help farmers diagnose crop issues and determine appropriate treatments, supplementing the declining number of agricultural experts.
Language Education: Start-ups like Ecumenopolis are developing AI-powered tools to address shortages in language teachers, particularly in English instruction. These tools allow students to practice English conversations with AI avatars, providing personalized feedback and opportunities for language practice outside the classroom.
Administrative Tasks: Municipalities like Yokosuka City are leveraging AI chatbots for administrative tasks, such as transcribing and summarizing meetings. ChatGPT, an AI chatbot, helps save time and resources by automating repetitive tasks, freeing up human workers to focus on more complex responsibilities.
Public Administration: The Japanese government's Digital Agency is utilizing AI to train staff and improve efficiency in public administration. By exploring AI solutions, the government aims to optimize workforce productivity and address labor shortages across various sectors.
While AI offers significant potential to enhance workforce efficiency and address labor shortages, it is not viewed as a replacement for human workers. Instead, AI is seen as a tool to augment human capabilities and increase productivity. In Japan, where changes often occur gradually, the adoption of AI is embraced as part of a multifaceted approach to tackle demographic challenges and ensure economic sustainability.
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