Japan Immigration News

Japan's anti-immigration past faces a modern challenge: a 'super-aged' population

Release Date: 2026-01-04
Media: ABC NEWS
Summary: On Etajima Island in Hiroshima Prefecture, oyster farming—a core local industry and cultural tradition—now depends overwhelmingly on migrant labor. With nearly half the island’s residents aged over 65 and local workers scarce, more than 90 per cent of the oyster workforce now comes from countries such as Indonesia and Vietnam. Without them, producers say the industry would likely collapse.

This situation reflects Japan’s broader demographic crisis. Birth rates have been falling for decades, reaching a historic low in 2025, while the number of Japanese nationals declined by almost 890,000 in 2024 alone. At the same time, immigration has risen sharply, with foreign residents now numbering about 3.9 million (just over 3 per cent of the population). Although still small by international standards, this shift is significant for a traditionally homogeneous society.

The rapid increase in migrant workers has brought social challenges. In Etajima, a violent incident involving a foreign intern in 2013 left lingering fear among some elderly residents. Surveys show only 6 per cent of local residents want to engage with foreigners, compared with 60 per cent of migrants who want active interaction. To address this gap, the local government offers free language and culture classes and hosts multicultural events, focusing on building everyday connections rather than one-off initiatives.

Nationally, concerns about social cohesion have fueled political pushback. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has promised tougher immigration policies, and the anti-immigration Sanseitō party has seen a notable rise in support. Still, economists note Japan has taken a pragmatic approach, relying on temporary worker schemes like the Technical Intern Training Program to address labor shortages without committing to large-scale permanent immigration.

Despite tensions, Etajima shows signs of cautious success. Foreign workers are increasingly integrated into daily life, bringing economic stability and renewed vitality to the island. For local leaders and business owners, coexistence is not just a local challenge but a preview of Japan’s future as it grapples with population decline and the need for migrant labor.
Tags: Population

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