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Japan Lowers Skilled Worker Cap Amid Labor Shortage

12/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's government, Japan will cap Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 at 805,700, down from 820,000.
The new framework will cover 19 industrial fields and replace the Technical Intern Training Program, criticized for exploiting cheap labor.
Japan projects a 19 million worker shortage by 2030, underscoring foreign labor's importance.
A Cabinet decision is expected in January, with onboarding under the new system planned for March 2027.

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Story summary

Under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's government, Japan will cap Specified Skilled Worker Type 1 at 805,700, down from 820,000.
The new framework will cover 19 industrial fields and replace the Technical Intern Training Program, criticized for exploiting cheap labor.
Japan projects a 19 million worker shortage by 2030, underscoring foreign labor's importance.
A Cabinet decision is expected in January, with onboarding under the new system planned for March 2027.