The Japanese government first introduced its Science and Technology Basic Act in 1995, with ¥17 trillion in funding for research and development (R&D) over the first 5 years. Every 5 years, Japan makes changes to its policies on science and technology, based on input from the Council for Science and Technology Policy (CSTP). The Japanese […]

The Japanese government first introduced its Science and Technology Basic Act in 1995, with ¥17 trillion
in funding for research and development (R&D) over the first 5 years. Every 5 years, Japan makes
changes to its policies on science and technology, based on input from the Council for Science and
Technology Policy (CSTP). The Japanese government first introduced its Science and Technology Basic
Act in 1995, with ¥17 trillion in funding for research and development (R&D) over the first 5 years.

The Second Basic Plan, from 2001 through 2005, was led by the CTSP, with ¥24 trillion allotted to R&D
focusing on life science, information and communications, environment, and nanotechnology and
materials. From 2006 through 2010, the Third Basic Plan focused on social needs, international
competencies, and the sustainability of the R&D system. The Fourth Basic Plan (2011 through 2015) and Fifth Basic Plan (in effect since December 2015) prioritized science and technology policies as a means for Japan to realize some of its major mid- and long-term national goals and to improve its society as awhole.

Download the timeline that shows the progression of research in Japan from the 1960s to present time.

Want the latest stories delivered to your inbox each month?