Japan aims to offset labor shortages with prospect of 4-day workweeks
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Japan is addressing labor shortages by promoting four-day workweeks; government support began in 2021, but only 8% of companies offer three or more days off; the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare launched a campaign for work style reform; only three companies have sought government advice on changes; Panasonic reports only 150 out of 63,000 eligible employees have opted for four-day schedules; Japan's working culture is characterized by long hours and conformity; 54 deaths from overwork (karoshi) reported annually; the working-age population is projected to decline to 45 million by 2065; companies like Fast Retailing and Mizuho Financial Group have adopted flexible schedules; critics argue four-day schedules may lead to increased workload; only 6% of Japanese workers feel engaged at work according to Gallup; NS Group offers 30 scheduling patterns to accommodate employee needs.

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https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/japan-aims-to-offset-labor-shortages-with-prospect-of-4-day-workweeks