EBC Newsletter – June 14, 2023

• The Japanese government wants to exempt information on patented technology items in 25 sectors, such as those for hypersonic and stealth flight, from being disclosed to beef up the country’s economic security, officials said Monday. In a draft plan presented at a panel meeting, the government also outlined the types of infrastructure projects it will screen in 14 key sectors, including the utility industry, to bolster its response to cyberattacks. (Kyodo News+)
• The government decided to expand the scope of the Category II residence status for foreign workers during a Cabinet meeting on Friday. It will expand from the current two fields to 11. Prior to the meeting, it was also decided to dissolve the foreign technical intern training program aimed at international contribution during a related ministerial meeting. A new system will be created that focuses primarily on securing human resources. (The Japan News)
• The government on Tuesday revised its basic hydrogen strategy to newly include a goal to expand the country’s hydrogen supply by sixfold from current levels to around 12 million tons a year in 2040. Drawn up in 2017, the basic hydrogen strategy was revised for the first time. Based on the revised strategy, the government will aim for public-private investments of around ¥15 trillion over the next 15 years. (The Japan News)

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