Significant Progress in Skilled Workforce Cooperation between Pakistan and Japan

Tokyo: A major breakthrough has been achieved in the cooperation between Pakistan and Japan regarding the export of skilled Pakistani labor, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2019. For the first time, the Japanese government has agreed to conduct skill evaluation tests (known as the “Specfied Skilled Workers” program) in Pakistan, making it easier for Pakistani candidates to apply for jobs in Japan without the need to travel abroad.
According to a statement released by the Pakistani Embassy in Tokyo, this success is the result of continuous efforts by the Embassy in facilitating these opportunities for Pakistani candidates.
The statement further mentioned that from August and September 2025, skill assessment tests for two sectors, Nursing and Agriculture, will be conducted in Pakistan. Prior to this, from March 2025, tests for the category of automobile transportation drivers (truck, bus, and taxi drivers) will also begin.
In the past, Pakistani candidates faced difficulties traveling abroad to participate in these tests. However, with the introduction of these tests within Pakistan, the process will now be more inclusive, accessible, and convenient.
The Embassy’s statement also highlighted that under the “Specified Skilled Workers” (SSW) program, the Japanese government aims to recruit 135,000 workers in the nursing sector, 78,000 workers in agriculture, and 24,500 workers in the automobile transportation sector from foreign countries by 2029.
This development opens doors for skilled Pakistani youth to access Japan’s job market, and is expected to boost remittances from overseas. The Embassy of Pakistan has called on both public and private training institutions to take steps to train skilled individuals proficient in the Japanese language, so that more candidates can participate in these tests. This opportunity is not only important for individual development but will also contribute significantly to the improvement of Pakistan’s national economy.
For further details on the exam schedules, application procedures, and available training resources, candidates and training institutions are encouraged to contact the Community Welfare Wing of the Embassy or visit the Embassy’s official website.