Fri., July 17, 2026: Staff Seminar “Spatial Distribution Patterns of AI Patents in Japan and Their Determinants” (online)

We regularly hold Staff Seminars for research presentations and information exchange among our researchers. We look forward to your participation.

* This online seminar is free to attend, and the details are as follows:

Date and Time

Friday, July 17, 2026 at 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm (JST)
*A question-and-answer session is scheduled after the presentation.

Presenter

Xue Peng, Associate Professor, AGI

Title

Spatial Distribution Patterns of AI Patents in Japan and Their Determinants

Abstract

Technological innovation has become increasingly important for regional competitiveness. Regions that successfully foster emerging technologies may share certain common attributes that support innovation activities. Among emerging technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a key driver of regional economic transformation and productivity growth. Using Japan as the study area, this study aims to examine the spatial distribution of AI technology across Japanese prefectures and to identify the factors shaping its regional concentration. This study draws on data from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and focuses on granted patents owned by Japanese. We calculate the annual number of granted AI patents for each Japanese prefecture and construct a prefecture-level panel dataset for empirical analysis. The findings may provide useful insights for city policymakers and local governments seeking to foster AI innovation and regional technological development.

Language

English presentation and material(s)

Presenter Biography

Dr. Peng obtained her bachelor’s degree in urban planning from Peking University and her doctoral degree from the Graduate School of Social System Studies at the University of Kitakyushu. She has 11 years of practical experience in urban planning in China. Currently, she serves as an Associate Professor at the Asian Growth Research Institute. Her research focuses on international and domestic population mobility, tourism, urban and regional development, and urban planning, utilizing spatial and econometric analysis methods. She has published in leading international journals, including Humanities and Social Sciences Communications and Economic Analysis and Policy.