Japan has announced plans to begin hiring professional drivers from Uzbekistan, marking the first time Uzbek nationals will be employed in Japan’s transportation sector, according to the Uzbek Migration Agency.

The announcement follows talks held on April 9 between representatives of the Migration Agency and Japan’s Shimizu Corporation. The Japanese company already employs 150 Uzbek workers in the construction and manufacturing sectors. During the meeting, the two sides signed a memorandum of cooperation aimed at expanding recruitment and creating more job opportunities for Uzbek citizens across Japan.

The agreement is expected to open a new pathway for skilled Uzbek drivers and contribute to addressing labor shortages in Japan’s transportation industry.

Additionally, the Director of the Migration Agency, Bekhzod Musayev, met with South Korean Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Won Do Yeon, on April 10 to discuss broader employment opportunities for Uzbeks in South Korea. Discussions focused on regional access to EPS-TOPIK exams, seasonal visa arrangements, tackling illegal migration, and promoting Korean language education among job seekers.

Ambassador Won emphasized the need for Uzbek workers to adhere strictly to their employment contracts, noting that consistent professionalism would encourage more Korean employers to select Uzbek candidates. He also pledged to address issues related to employment for candidates in the SPAS electronic database who have not yet been matched with employers.

The two sides agreed to work together to enhance legal and safe migration processes between Uzbekistan and South Korea.