Japan has embraced the need for a “digital transformation” to boost productivity and spur regional growth. Achieving this digital transformation will require innovative and secure mobile applications in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, energy, and transportation.
However, the creation and adoption of the next generation of innovative and secure mobile apps could be slowed by regulations now being considered for mobile platforms in Japan, according to a new report released March 17 by the Progressive Policy Institute. Such regulations could unintentionally open the door to cybersecurity threats and undermine the very features of app stores that make them so effective in encouraging innovation and security. The result: A slower pace of digital transformation. The report is titled, “How the Economics and Regulation of Mobile Platforms Affects Japan’s Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity” and is authored by PPI’s Vice President and Chief Economist Dr. Michael Mandel.
The analysis in this report, while focused on Japan, is applicable to other countries as well. “Mobile apps are essential for digital transformation. Today’s app stores play a key role in ensuring that mobile apps are both innovative and secure,” said Dr. Michael Mandel. “Mobile platform regulations should be carefully scrutinized to avoid a ‘race to the bottom’ that would reduce cybersecurity, slow innovation and hinder digital transformation.”
Download the full report in English here.
Download the full report in Japanese here.
The Progressive Policy Institute (PPI) is a catalyst for policy innovation and political reform based in Washington, D.C. Its mission is to create radically pragmatic ideas for moving America beyond ideological and partisan deadlock. Learn more about PPI by visiting progressivepolicy.org.
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Media Contact: Tommy Kaelin; tkaelin@ppionline.org
