NHK



 

Japan's government has decided to accept more than 1.23 million foreign workers under two systems -- for skilled personnel and a new training program.

The government has presented its plan to a panel of experts to accept one-million 231,900 workers through the end of March 2029.

It says 805,700 people will be accepted in 19 fields under the current system for specified skilled workers. By industry, 199,500 would be in the manufacturing of industrial products, 133,500 would be in the manufacturing of food and drink products and 126,900 would be in nursing care.

The other system to be introduced on April 1, 2027 aims to train foreign workers so they attain the level of specified skilled personnel in three years in principle.

A total of 426,200 people will be accepted in 17 fields under this system. By industry, 123,500 will be in construction, 119,700 will be in industrial manufacturing and 61,400 will be in food and drink manufacturing.

Officials say this is the maximum number, as they have calculated the personnel that can be secured in Japan and the expected rise in productivity.

The government plans to debate the plan and have the Cabinet approve it in January.