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Japan's foreign workforce tops 2.5m for first time

Release Date
2026-01-31
Media
NIKKEI Asia
Summary
Japan’s foreign workforce surpassed 2.57 million in 2025, exceeding 2.5 million for the first time since records began in 2008, according to data from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. Foreign workers grew 11.7% year on year, marking the third consecutive year of double-digit growth, and accounted for about 4% of all employees in Japan.

By nationality, Vietnamese workers were the largest group at around 600,000, followed by China (430,000) and the Philippines (260,000). The fastest growth came from Myanmar, with a 42.5% increase, while Indonesia and Sri Lanka also saw significant rises.

By industry, foreign employment increased most sharply in medical and welfare services, including nursing care, followed by hospitality, dining, and construction. Manufacturing remained the largest employer of foreign workers.

To address labor shortages, Japan plans to launch the Employment for Skill Development Program in April 2027 to replace the Technical Intern Training Program, accepting up to 426,200 workers over two years. Together with the Specified Skilled Worker program, Japan will allow up to 1.23 million foreign workers under these frameworks.
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