Rising Bankruptcies in Construction and Logistics: A Crisis of Workforce Shortage?

Japan's construction and logistics industries are seeing an increase in bankruptcies, with a lack of workforce growth being the primary driver. The issue has been on a steady rise, causing concern among industry specialists and economists who highlight the potential repercussions for the nation's economy. The principal reasons behind the shortage include an aging population, low birth rates, and strict immigration policies limiting the influx of foreign workers. The need for reform is urgent as the crisis implications extend beyond the sectors, threatening to slow down the country's economic growth.

In Japan, the issue of labor shortage is a significant one that locals deeply care about. The country's aging population and low birth rates have gradually led to less workforce availability, particularly in blue-collar sectors such as construction and logistics. Moreover, Japan's labor laws and stringent immigration policies complicate the matter by restricting the influx of foreign workers. These labor issues are also tied to the societal values of the elderly's role in the workforce and the tension between preserving cultural integrity and addressing labor needs.

Unlike in Japan, countries like the US and EU typically have much more liberal immigration policies. They often depend on foreign labor to meet workforce shortages in different sectors, including construction and logistics. The aging population issue isn't as drastic either, thanks to a comparatively higher birth rate and successful immigration policies, making for a more balanced workforce demographic.

Information for Your Country

Those interested to know more about the global labor shortage issue can refer to the following services: International Labour Organization (ILO) reports, OECD Statistics on International Immigration, and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) for specific insights on Japan.