Japan improved its ranking to achieve 6th in GCI 2019.

Japan performed considerably above the global average in most assessment indicators, hitting the maximum score in the following six: 4G coverage, smartphone penetration, mobile broadband subscriptions, Internet participation, IoT experience, and patents. Its scores represent a solid and mature foundation for the more advanced application of digital technology.

Japan improved its scores in cloud computing, IoT, and AI. Increasing interest in e-commerce resulted from improved connectivity and broadband penetration. The nation is aiming to launch 5G by 2020 with the support of the Japanese government, hoping to become an industry leader in 5G and paving the way for other countries to adopt its 5G technology as a global standard.