Japan's Digital Affairs Minister Hisashi Matsumoto has issued a stark warning that the country could become an 'AI colony' if it does not enhance its investment and innovation in artificial intelligence. He emphasized the urgency for Japan to strengthen its AI sector to avoid dependence on foreign technologies. The minister's comments coincide with proposed changes to Japan's personal data protection law, which would permit AI developers to utilize sensitive data, including medical and criminal records, without direct consent. This has sparked debate among opposition parties and privacy advocates, who are calling for stricter oversight to protect personal data. With the global AI race intensifying, particularly led by the United States and China, Japan is urged to rethink its strategies in AI research and infrastructure. The demand for AI infrastructure is rising globally, prompting countries to enhance their data processing capabilities and energy resources to support large AI systems. Analysts suggest that the future of AI leadership will hinge on not only superior algorithms but also effective energy management and the ability to convert AI systems into economic value.