Japan minimum wage to rise to 1,177 yen average

Japan's minimum wage is set to rise significantly following recommendations for all 47 prefectures. The national weighted average hourly wage will increase by 56 yen, rising from 1,121 yen to 1,177 yen. This represents the second-highest increase level on record.

Regional variations persist, with Tokyo expected to have the highest minimum wage at 1,280 yen, while Miyazaki Prefecture will have the lowest at 1,085 yen. However, the gap between the highest and lowest regions is narrowing slightly, as prefectures with lower previous wages, such as Saga, are seeing larger increases (up to 65 yen).

To support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in managing these higher labor costs, the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency has announced a comprehensive support package aimed at strengthening the earning capacity of these businesses. The new wage rates are scheduled to take effect sequentially starting in October.