On 1 September 2025, State Secretary Leonie Gebers welcomed Japan's Ambassador Mitsuko Shino to the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs for an in-person exchange of views. Their meeting focused on demographics and the growing shortage of skilled labour in both Germany and Japan.
State Secretary Gebers and Ambassador Shino discussed the current challenges facing the labour markets and social security systems in both countries. Alongside demographic shifts, the repercussions of the global crises of recent years were a primary focus. In this context, State Secretary Gebers and Ambassador Shino also discussed the impact of US tariffs on the economy and labour market.
State Secretary Gebers emphasised: Employment in Germany remains at a high level, but the global economic uncertainties are also putting pressure on the German labour market. At the same time, Germany still needs skilled labour.
Although both Japan and Germany are experiencing an uptick in employment, there are still significant bottlenecks in many areas, including key sectors. The care sector is particularly impacted by this issue. Consequently, both countries are increasingly focusing on the immigration of skilled workers from abroad.
In addition to immigration, increasing the participation of women in the workforce is an important way of combating the shortage of skilled labour. Ambassador Shino emphasised the particular value of Germany and Japan sharing best practice examples.
The Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs has maintained very close and trusting relations with Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for many years. The tripartite meetings between our ministries and the German and Japanese social partners, which we hold in Germany or Japan every three years, are a testament to the excellent relations we enjoy,
says Leonie Gebers.
State Secretary Gebers also emphasised the importance of the intergovernmental consultations between Germany and Japan. Germany is the only country with which Japan holds such consultations.