Japan Immigration News

(ABC NEWS)Anti-immigration sentiment rises in Japan despite growing demand for foreign workers

Release Date: 2026-06-08
Media: ABC NEWS
Summary: Since 2024, Japan’s right-wing Sanseito party has rapidly gained political influence by promoting a Japan-first, anti-immigration agenda. Its success has encouraged Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s government to adopt stricter immigration policies, including higher visa fees, tighter residency requirements, and limits on foreign residents. Public support for these measures is significant, and some long-term foreign residents report feeling increasingly unwelcome, citing incidents of discrimination, hostility, and anti-foreigner sentiment in daily life.

Experts argue that Sanseito has capitalized on anti-establishment and cultural protectionist sentiments, borrowing rhetoric from overseas populist movements. However, Japan faces a severe demographic challenge: a shrinking population, record-low birth rates, and growing labor shortages. Research suggests Japan may require nearly 6.7 million foreign workers by 2040 to sustain economic growth. Despite this need, public concerns about cultural change and overtourism have fueled skepticism toward immigration.

Foreign residents interviewed in the article described experiences ranging from workplace discrimination to racial profiling by authorities. Studies indicate that acceptance of immigrants varies by nationality, language ability, and perceived cultural compatibility. At the same time, Japan continues to promote international tourism, targeting 60 million annual visitors by 2030. Scholars suggest that public frustration is directed less at economic competition and more at perceived cultural impacts, highlighting the challenge Japan faces in balancing demographic realities, economic needs, tourism growth, and social cohesion.
Tags: Immigration Policy

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