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Japan plans to counter cybersecurity threats by piloting free security tools for 1,000 businesses and by creating a new security certification framework, aiming to reduce disruption caused by security vulnerabilities.
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) will begin selecting participants as early as May for a one-year pilot program expected to start this summer.
The program is designed to recruit about 1,000 companies across multiple sectors. It will place particular emphasis on the automotive industry, citing its complex, multi-layer supply chains, as well as logistics, construction, and finance.
METI will also invite technology solution providers—especially those focused on cybersecurity and digital systems—to participate in developing the essential platforms for the initiative.
Participating businesses will receive cybersecurity guidance tailored to their operations and their relationships with relevant partners. They will also be provided with free software, equipment, and analytic support in the event of a cyberattack.
The Japanese government also intends to work with providers to commercialize cybersecurity services and to develop a pricing framework, with a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises.
In parallel, Japan plans to implement a cybersecurity maturity assessment system for businesses in this fiscal year. The goal is to establish a three-level certification scheme based on compliance with security requirements.
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