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Construction Work Forum 2026: Addressing Labor Shortages in the Industry

The construction industry in Japan faces a significant and chronic labor shortage, a situation that has reached alarming levels. The workforce of skilled laborers is aging, while the influx of younger recruits has stagnated, making it crucial to secure a sustainable workforce. Despite this challenge, the demand for construction - driven by the need to maintain and upgrade aging infrastructure as well as urban redevelopment projects - remains high. This event, the Construction Work Forum 2026, aims to address these pressing issues by bringing together an array of industry leaders and stakeholders.

Keynote Speakers and Sessions

The Construction Work Forum 2026, organized jointly by the SukeDachi Research Institute and Kyoto University, along with support from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, will feature discussions led by influential figures in the construction sector. Some of the prominent speakers include:

• - Jun Nakahara, Secretary General of the Japan Federation of Construction Contractors as the keynote speaker.
• - Kenji Haya, Director of the International Market Division at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, leading a session focused on foreign talent in the industry.
• - Takahiro Ono, President of Ono Construction Co., discussing skills education for the workforce.
• - Gakuto Yamada, President of Daito Co., and Daiki Anbuko, Director of Business Development at Hoxia Co., sharing insights on the next generation of leaders.
• - Yasunari Oki, President of Oki Construction, speaking about the importance of the succession of knowledge in the industry.

These sessions aim to pinpoint effective strategies that can be implemented to enhance the industry's framework, especially regarding improving the quality of work and increasing labor retention.

Addressing Complex Labor Issues

The persistent labor shortage in the construction industry is not merely about numbers but also about quality. The aging of the workforce raises urgent questions on how the sector can attract new talent while managing existing labor more effectively. Recent laws, such as the Work Style Reform Act, have been established to create a better working environment, supporting efforts to ensure workforce stability. Moreover, the introduction of digital transformation (DX) processes is another proposed solution to enhance productivity and operational efficiency.

Discussions during the forum will revolve around these new frameworks, examining how various entities including private construction firms, local small contractors, craftsmen, and construction service providers can collaborate to mitigate these challenges effectively. The forum is designed not just to analyze problems but to foster partnerships among government, academia, and industry leaders to find practical solutions.

Highlights of the Forum 2026

In addition to insightful discussions, the Construction Work Forum 2026 promises valuable opportunities for networking among various stakeholders in the construction industry. The forum will feature a