Amazon USA has announced that it is gearing up to cut positions, potentially impacting up to 30,000 of its employees. While the specifics of potential redundancies remain unclear, the decision reflects the broader challenges faced by the global retail giant amidst ever-evolving e-commerce trends. The stance may affect its market position, not only at home but also overseas, including Japan.
In Japan, the news is viewed with apprehension and concern as Amazon plays a major role in the country's e-commerce industry and job market. Economic stability is highly valued in Japan, and hence, news about significant workforce reductions, even when they're occurring overseas, makes waves. In recent years, Japanese society has been grappling with work insecurity and wage stagnancy, so this news could add to the anxiety.
In contrast to Japan, labor market flexibility is higher in the US, with firings and hirings being more common. However, such a significant layoff announcement would normally be met with considerable backlash and social sympathy towards the employees. In the EU, labor laws often make it harder for companies to implement such drastic workforce cuts. Therefore, similar situations may result in heated negotiations between unions, employees, and the company.