JAPAN WUT PODCAST 199 "THE EMPIRE'S EDGE"
What is Japan’s current position in the Supply Chain Wars? How will Japan handle the influx of millions of AI Agents in the workforce? Can Japan develop its own Self-Driving Systems?
SHOW NOTES
SUPPLY CHAIN WAR
Hill hearing explores network of China-controlled ports as security threat
China builds space alliances in Africa as Trump cuts foreign aid
Ghana and China (from Grok)
Infrastructure Investments: China has financed significant infrastructure projects in Ghana, often through loans and barter agreements. For example, the Bui Dam, Ghana’s second-largest hydroelectric plant, was constructed by Sinohydro through a barter loan involving cocoa exports. China’s Export-Import Bank provided a USD 562 million loan for the USD 622 million project. Other projects include telecommunication networks, highways, water supply expansions, and schools in Accra.
Rail and Road Development: A USD 6 billion concessionary loan from the China Export-Import Bank is being used to extend Ghana’s rail network, including the 17 km Ofankor-Nsawam road (completed in 2009 with a USD 28 million interest-free loan) and landing sites for fishing communities (USD 99 million interest-free loan).
Mining and Bauxite Deals: China has invested in Ghana’s mining sector, particularly in bauxite, through deals that exchange infrastructure development for mining rights. These investments have led to significant environmental and social concerns, including deforestation and water pollution in areas like the Atewa forest.
Total Investments: By 2014, Chinese investments in Ghana reached USD 1.6 billion, with cumulative investments from 2008 to 2015 totaling USD 2.2 billion. Most investments focus on manufacturing, construction, tourism, trading, and services, with building and construction emerging as major recipients.
Taiwan plans investment and trade center in Fukuoka
SOCIETY 5.0
How can the president of a black company become invincible by acquiring an "AI agent"?
Hackers Using AI Agents To Validate Stolen Credit Cards
SoftBank app SureTalk turns sign language into text
AI agent developed by University of Tokyo startup Tou to streamline construction work
The advent of the "Sales 3.0" era: Algomatic's AI agents will change the future of sales
Napkin AI reinvents the design agency: 4 AI agents generate professional-grade graphics in 5 seconds
Colega AI, an AI agent for restaurants, raises funds and enters the Japanese market in earnest
Migaro Holdings aims to expand its facial recognition service overseas
Nihon Kotsu and Tier IV begin collecting driving data across Tokyo for AI development
