Myanmar Migrant Workers in Japan: A Case Study of Specified Skilled Workers (SSW)

In recent years, the number of Myanmar workers migrating to Japan under the SSW system has risen sharply. In 2022, the number of workers heading to Japan increased by more than 55 times compared to 2021, and by 2023, this figure had surged to over 60 times the 2021 level. This research examined the current situation of Myanmar migrant workers in Japan and the positive and negative impacts on Myanmar caused by migrant workers in Japan under the SSW system. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight participants, including two government officials from Myanmar, to gain insights into the impacts of migration. This research found two key aspects of the current situation for migrant workers. First, migrant workers under the SSW system do not experience labor rights violations. Second, language barriers are a significant challenge, with workers reporting difficulties in communication during their stay in Japan. Regarding the positive and negative impacts of SSW migration, remittances benefit both the community and national levels, and migration offers potential for brain circulation. However, a major negative impact is the illegal money exchange system, known as the Hundi system, which undermines the stability of Myanmar’s financial sector. In terms of brain drain, while there is potential for it, the impact of SSW workers alone on Myanmar’s domestic workforce appears minimal. Therefore, the study recommends that the government initiate financial literacy programs for migrant workers to reduce reliance on illegal money exchange systems and offer incentives to encourage their return, in order to mitigate the effects of brain drain.