The Japanese government has set an ambitious target to increase the number of cybersecurity experts to 50,000 by 2030. This initiative aims to address the pressing shortage of qualified personnel and enhance the nation’s resilience against cyber threats.
As of April 2025, approximately 24,000 individuals in Japan hold the Registered Information Security Specialist (RISS) national license, a certification established in 2016 to standardize cybersecurity expertise. These licensed professionals play an important role in developing and implementing cybersecurity measures across various sectors.
To bridge this gap, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has outlined a strategic plan to double the number of RISS holders by 2030. This initiative includes enhancing training programs, promoting cybersecurity education, and incentivizing professionals to pursue certifications.
Financial Considerations and Policy Adjustments
Obtaining and maintaining the RISS certification involves a financial commitment. License holders are required to pay over ¥100,000 every three years to renew their credentials through mandated courses. Recognizing the financial burden on professionals actively contributing to cybersecurity efforts, the expert panel has proposed exemptions from certain renewal courses starting from fiscal year 2026.
Japan’s cybersecurity market is experiencing growth, with many initiatives taking place within Japan and outside collaborations. In 2024, the market size was estimated at USD 8.65 billion, with projections indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5% from 2025 to 2030. This expansion is driven by several factors, including increased government investment, the proliferation of digital technologies, and the rise of cybersecurity incidents.
International Collaboration: EU-Japan Digital Partnership
Japan’s approach to cybersecurity extends beyond its borders through international collaborations, notably with the European Union (EU).
The third meeting of the EU-Japan Digital Partnership Council, held in Tokyo on May 12, 2025, highlighted the government’s key initiatives.
Key outcomes from the council meeting include:
- Cybersecurity Cooperation: Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in cybersecurity, focusing on information sharing, joint training initiatives, and the development of common standards. The sixth EU-Japan Cyber Dialogue, held in November 2024, served as a platform to deepen coordination on cyber-related issues, including the protection of critical infrastructure and improving product security.
- Joint Research Initiatives: The council highlighted collaborative research efforts in new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), 5G/6G, and quantum computing. These initiatives aim to boost competitiveness, innovation, and resilience in digital technologies, contributing to the development of secure and trustworthy digital infrastructures.
- Data Governance and Trust: Both sides emphasized the importance of data governance and the free flow of data with trust. The implementation of the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, effective from July 1, 2024, facilitates cross-border data flows while ensuring better data protection standards.
Strategic Objectives for 2030
Japan’s cybersecurity strategy is centered on several key objectives:
- Expansion of Cybersecurity Workforce: Achieving the target of 50,000 cybersecurity experts by 2030 through enhanced education and training programs.
- Integration of Advanced Technologies: Leveraging AI and machine learning to improve threat detection and response capabilities, thereby enhancing the overall cybersecurity posture.
- Strengthening International Partnerships: Deepening collaborations with international allies, particularly through the EU-Japan Digital Partnership, to address global cybersecurity challenges collectively.
- Policy Reforms: Implementing policy adjustments, such as exemptions from certain certification renewal courses, to support professionals actively engaged in cybersecurity efforts.
Conclusion
Japan’s proactive approach to addressing the cybersecurity expert shortage and strengthening international partnerships positions the nation to develop and accelerate growth in the nation.
By investing in human capital, developing new technologies, and collaborating with global partners, Japan aims to create a secure and resilient digital environment that supports economic growth and protects critical infrastructure.
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