Japan intends to follow D.O.G.E. Ilon Musk's D.O.G.E. and borrow ideas
Japan's minister for digital transformation eyes U.S. Department of Government Efficiency for economic reforms
Masaaki Taira, Japan’s minister for digital transformation (DX), has expressed interest in the United States’ newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), established by U.S. president-elect Donald Trump.
Led by Elon Musk, DOGE has sparked curiosity and debate internationally. In a November 14 address during Japan’s “Autumn Review,” Taira suggested that Japan’s government could “follow up closely” on DOGE’s progress and potentially “incorporate” its ideas into Japan’s administrative reforms, reports Cryptopolitan.
DOGE and Japan’s Digital Reform Agenda
Taira, who also oversees administrative reform, views the DOGE initiative as a potential model for addressing Japan’s economic struggles. Speaking of Musk’s leadership, Taira remarked, “We expect some pretty drastic developments” and emphasized the importance of studying the bureau’s innovations. His comments reflect Japan’s broader ambition to digitally transform its economy using technologies like robotics, drones, and AI for purposes ranging from caregiving to emissions tracking.
The idea of a government department named “DOGE” has raised eyebrows, with some questioning its seriousness. However, Taira’s interest underscores Japan’s willingness to adopt unconventional ideas to tackle longstanding challenges like a weak yen, inflation, and overtourism.
Mixed Reactions Amid Controversy
Taira’s remarks come at a time of political and economic tension in Japan. The DX minister has faced public scrutiny over allegations of illegitimate political donations, and his praise for DOGE has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that Japan should focus on addressing its domestic issues rather than drawing inspiration from a department that some see as “cartoonish.”
Taira’s comments align with the policy direction of Japan’s newly installed prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, who has pledged to increase military spending and align more closely with U.S. foreign policy. However, local reactions remain critical, with one popular X user sarcastically suggesting that the government begin reforms by ranking “stupid ways to spend tax money.”
As Japan navigates its digital transformation, Taira’s interest in DOGE highlights the country’s openness to global ideas—but also the delicate balance it must strike in addressing domestic concerns while pursuing innovation.
Recently we wrote, that Elon Musk, known for his influential presence on social media, recently sent waves of excitement through the Dogecoin community with a cryptic tweet that simply read "D.O.G.E."
