TOKYO - For the first time, the number of foreign workers in Japan has exceeded 2 million, reaching an all-time high, a key ingredient in securing a stable workforce as Japan faces a declining working-age population.
According to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, as of October last year, there were 2,048,675 foreign workers in Japan.
This figure represents an increase of 225,950 from 2022, surpassing 2 million for the first time since 2007, when reporting the employment of foreign workers became mandatory for all employers.
The growth rate from 2022 is 12.4%, a significant rise from the previous year's rate of 5.5%, indicating a recovery to the growth rate seen before the COVID-19 pandemic.
This increase is partly attributed to the accelerated acceptance of specific skilled workers and technical interns.
The Ministry notes that the growth rate has returned to pre-pandemic levels.
By nationality, Vietnamese workers constitute the largest group at 25.3%, followed by Chinese at 19.4%, and Filipinos at 11.1%.
Industry-wise, manufacturing leads with 27.0%, followed by the service industry at 15.7%. However, the most notable increases have been in sectors facing labor shortages, such as construction and medical and welfare services.
Labor Minister Takeo Tsuji emphasized the importance of securing a workforce, including foreign nationals, as Japan faces a declining population of working age. He highlighted the commitment to improving the working environment and understanding the realities for foreign workers in Japan.
Source: ANN
