Japan Announces Record 5% Minimum Wage Increase

The labor ministry's decision marks the largest hike since 1978, aiming to support low-income households amid inflation.

The national average minimum wage will rise by ¥50 to ¥1,054 per hour.
This increase follows a significant 5.1% pay hike achieved by workers earlier this year.
Higher wages are expected to boost consumer spending but may strain small businesses.
Prime Minister Kishida targets a minimum wage of ¥1,500 by the mid-2030s.
The new wage rates will be implemented by each prefecture starting in October.