Jul 13 (NHK) - Japan's government is counting on foreign workers to ease the labor shortage in a range of industries.
Government officials plan to create a new resident status to allow non-Japanese workers with certain skills to stay in Japan for up to 5 years.
Japan is expected to start welcoming the first such workers as soon as next April.
On Thursday, officials of the economy, trade and industry ministry held a meeting in Tokyo to present the plan, and outlined details for business representatives.
About 300 people from companies and industry groups attended the briefing. Many said they hope their industries will be included in the plan.
Participants said they want to know what kind of industries will be included in the plan and how industries can prepare to accept the new arrivals.
Officials said the government hasn't decided on the range of industries, but will draw up a list of criteria for each one. The list is to cover details such as job skills and Japanese language proficiency that workers should have, and how employers can support them in daily life.
They added that the first priority for businesses should be employing more Japanese workers, especially women and the elderly, before using the plan.
