AsianFin — As the global race to harness generative AI accelerates, a major Japanese internet company has mandated that all employees incorporate generative AI into their daily work.

The company requires staff to begin research and information-gathering tasks by consulting AI, use AI to draft outlines instead of starting documents from scratch, and rely entirely on AI for meeting minutes. The ambitious goal is to double workplace efficiency within three years and spark greater innovation.

The move has drawn attention across Japan, where both corporate and individual use of generative AI lags significantly behind leading adopters like China and the United States. According to recent data, only around 50% of surveyed Japanese companies are currently using generative AI—well below the 80%+ adoption rates seen in China and the U.S.

Despite its long-standing technological prowess, Japan has so far played a muted role in the global AI boom. However, momentum appears to be shifting, with more Japanese firms now stepping up efforts to position themselves for the future of AI.