July 14, 2025 – According to a report from Nihon Keizai Shimbun, on the same day, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry unveiled the investment conditions set by the Japanese government for the advanced semiconductor manufacturer Rapidus. Rapidus is required to issue “golden shares” to the government.
This move implies that the Japanese government will gain veto power over major corporate decisions. It aims to prevent the outflow of crucial technologies and effectively manage economic security risks, such as the company being acquired by foreign investors.
Further support from the Japanese government for Rapidus is expected to take place after the amendment to the Information Processing Promotion Law comes into effect in mid – August this year. When making actual investments, the government will assess whether the company can achieve stable operating profits and has the potential to raise funds from the private sector.
In the current fiscal year, Japan has allocated a budget of 100 billion yen to support Rapidus. Moreover, the amendment also grants the government the authority to provide guarantees for private loans taken out by Rapidus.
