#Japan #Food Industry #Uzbekistan #Shinjuku #Proud Partners

Proud Partners and Uzbekistan: A New Chapter in Talent Development

Introduction

In response to significant labor shortages within Japan, Proud Partners, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has established a mutual cooperation agreement with the Government of Uzbekistan and Karakalpak State University. This initiative aims to train foreign national talent for Japan’s food industry, highlighting the crucial collaboration between industry, government, and academia.

The Onset of the Project

In September 2025, Proud Partners will officially sign an international labor agreement with the Uzbek government, focusing on cultivating specific skill workers from Uzbekistan. This cooperation was solidified with an agreement on December 3, 2025, to facilitate the acceptance and support of Uzbek talent in Japan's dining sector.

The Need for Skilled Workforce in Japan

The Japanese food service industry functions as a cultural hub, sharing delicious food and experiences with both locals and international visitors. However, a critical shortage of personnel has made it difficult for businesses to meet rising demand. Japan is projected to welcome over 20,000 specific skill talent by the end of 2024, but challenges such as inadequate training systems and unfavorable working conditions persist.

The Significance of the Collaboration

This collaboration is particularly vital, as the food service sector is known for its high Japanese language requirements, complicating overseas training and recruitment. Yet, this initiative allows for curriculum-based Japanese language acquisition and hospitality skills training during students' studies at Karakalpak State University. The ultimate goal is for these trained individuals to smoothly transition into the workforce under Japan's specific skills residency program after arrival.

Advantages for the Food Industry

The benefits for Japanese food companies are manifold, including improved readiness of foreign talent and a sustainable supply chain for recruitment, mitigating the costs previously associated with overseas training. Given that many restaurants face challenges related to the Japanese language proficiency of their employees, this systematic training approach is essential for maintaining service quality and safety standards.

Historical Background of Cooperation

This joint endeavor marks the first such partnership between Japan and Uzbekistan's food service sector. Proud Partners, with a history of training over 5,700 foreign workers across various sectors, including construction and dining, emphasizes that both recruitment and retention are vital for alleviating labor shortages.

The Future of the Initiative

Set to formally launch by 2026, the partnership with Karakalpak State University will serve as a benchmark for global training strategies. The initiative aligns with Uzbekistan’s ambitious goals to enhance its workforce quality and broaden employment opportunities for its youth, with a median age of only 27.

Benefits for Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan's government strives to produce a qualified workforce and reduce unemployment among its young people through practical work experience abroad. This project not only promises to improve the livelihood of its participants but also aims to elevate the Uzbeks' role in the global labor market.

Closing Thoughts

The collaboration between Proud Partners and Uzbekistan indicates a promising future for the food service industry in Japan—bridging gaps caused by labor shortages while offering significant opportunities for Uzbeks. Through this international partnership, both parties anticipate sustained growth and development in their respective industries.

About Proud Partners

Founded in July 2012, Proud Partners has established itself as a leader in providing talent solutions across Japan. With 126 employees, Proud Partners focuses on the mission of creating a fair and borderless working environment for foreign workers, ensuring they can contribute positively to Japanese society.

For inquiries regarding the hiring of specific skilled foreign talents, Proud Partners is eager and prepared to assist businesses looking to expand their workforce sustainably.