Our Activities

The Center has conducted research mainly on geopolitical and trade issues, and has disseminated its findings through webinars, contributed articles, and published books. However, with the recent development of digital technology, the digitization of the economy and society has been progressing rapidly, and international economic activities through digital space (so-called "digital trade"), including not only e-commerce but also online music and video distribution services and electronic payment services, have been expanding. Recently, technologies such as generative AI have become readily available, and the potential for economic impact, such as the proliferation of false information and infringement of intellectual property rights, is great, and countries and international conferences have begun to consider and discuss this issue.

As digital trade progresses, the need to formulate international rules for the digital world is also increasing, and in August 2023, the Center established the Digital Society Research Team to study the issues and directions that need to be taken toward the realization of a digital society, and how Japan should optimally deepen its relationship with the international community. In April 2024, we will launch the "Digital Society Research Institute" (Head: Masanobu Katoh), which will engage in full-fledged research activities and launch new research groups, and actively disseminate information, including the results of these research groups, through webinars and other means.

As a think tank, CFIEC has formulated its mid-term vision "CFIEC2030″ and aims to create a platform for intellectual exchange and to provide highly accurate information in a neutral, easy-to-understand, and timely manner. From a perspective not found in other research institutes, CFIEC will research, analyze, compile, and disseminate proposals on the issues and ways to realize the digital society of the future, in cooperation and collaboration with relevant policy-making authorities, industry, and academic experts.

Activity Plan:

1. Research and analysis related to the realization of a digital society
2. Establishment and operation of a study group on the realization of a digital society
3. Participation in internal and external discussions on the state of Internet governance
4. Enlightenment and proposals regarding the realization of a digital society
5. Participation in external activities related to 1-4, information gathering, and dissemination of information internally and externally

The following four study groups will be established to work toward the realization of certain results.

Through these efforts, we will continue to conduct research and study activities from a multifaceted perspective, taking a broad view of the issues that need to be addressed in relation to the digital society.

Through our International Affairs Research and Analysis, we conduct objective and level-headed analysis and examination of structural changes in the global economic society, their background, and future challenges and initiatives. This is accomplished through research group activities consisting of experts, webinars on selected themes, and contributions/publications by distinguished experts. We then disseminate information and make recommendations to both domestic and international stakeholders.

In our Information Dissemination Program, we select topics of high domestic and international interest, such as approaches to addressing trends that significantly impact the world, including Japan, in crucial areas like national security, economics, and technology. Through webinars and expert contributions, we provide timely analysis and recommendations from specialists who offer objective and balanced perspectives in their respective fields.