Opportunities and Challenges of Bangladeshi Labor Force in Japan

Currently, the Japanese labor market is facing an acute labor shortage due to its demographic crisis. The severity of this situation has reached such a proportion that Japan appears unable to address it internally. Hence, Japan is in dire need of foreign workers to keep its massive industries running. On the other hand, Bangladesh is witnessing a demographic dividend with a massive pool of working- age population. Therefore, the Japanese labor market holds great potential for young and skilled Bangladeshi workers. This qualitative research analyzes the current scenario of Japan’s labor market and identifies opportunities and challenges for Bangladeshi workers. It reveals that a lack of cultural orientation, poor command of Japanese language and appropriate skills are major predicaments for Bangladeshi workforce in the Japanese labor market. This study recommends collaborative action immediately by the governments of Bangladesh and Japan, sending organizations (SOs) of Bangladesh and Japanese companies as well as training centers for skill development of interested workforce and removing policy barriers for the export of labor to Japan from Bangladesh. Social Science Review, Vol. 41(2), December 2024, pp. 57-82