#Japan #Tokyo #ManpowerGroup #Talent Shortage #Skills Demand

Understanding the 2026 Talent Shortage Report

ManpowerGroup, a comprehensive human resource service provider based in Tokyo, has released findings from its 2026 Talent Shortage Report. This report gathers insights from employers across 41 countries and regions, including Japan, focusing on the challenges they face in securing talent, the demand for hard and soft skills, and the strategies being implemented to address talent shortages.

Key Findings from the Report

According to the survey, the percentage of employers reporting difficulties in securing talent has slightly decreased globally, from 74% to 72%. However, Japan experiences an alarming increase, with 84% of employers acknowledging challenges in recruitment, up from 77% last year. This figure exceeds the global average and underscores a pressing talent shortage in the nation.

Talent Shortage Rankings

The survey identifies Slovakia as having the highest sense of manpower scarcity, with a staggering 87% of employers reporting difficulties, followed by Greece at 84% and Japan also at 84%. This continued increase in Japan's shortage perception further highlights the complexities facing Japanese employers in maintaining a robust workforce.

Key Skills in Demand

The report highlights that the most sought-after hard skill in Japan is sales and marketing expertise (24%), while for soft skills, adaptability and eagerness to learn rank highest at 47%. This growing need for advanced analytical capabilities and strategic planning skills in the sales and marketing sectors reflects the acceleration of digitalization and diversified customer behaviors. Employers are clearly looking for candidates who can autonomously learn and improve their skills to adapt swiftly to changing environments.

Strategies to Combat Talent Scarcity

In response to the ongoing talent shortage, employers are focusing on several strategies, with wage increases (32%) being the most prevalent action taken. Additionally, upskilling and reskilling existing employees (29%) emerged as crucial strategies. This indicates a dual approach by employers aiming at both improving employee compensation to retain talent and fostering internal development and organizational strength.

About the Survey Methodology

The survey was conducted online from October 1 to October 31, 2025, with a significant total of 39,063 valid responses collected, including 1,063 from Japan. The research aims to forecast future labor market trends by regularly analyzing current employment conditions and challenges. Detailed insights can be accessed through ManpowerGroup's research center at ManpowerGroup Research Center.

Conclusion

As companies globally navigate through complex labor market dynamics, Japan's increasing difficulties in securing talent call for urgent attention. Strategies implemented by employers must evolve to address the growing demands for both hard and soft skills while ensuring sustainable workforce development. ManpowerGroup continues to lead discussions on these vital issues affecting organizations worldwide.A longer-term perspective will be crucial in adapting to future workforce trends, ensuring organizations can effectively tackle the persistent challenge of talent shortages.