Tokyo, March 25 -- Logistics and transportation companies in Japan have begun recruiting foreign nationals as drivers now that their industries qualify for a special employment visa amid a severe labour shortage.

To obtain the "specified skills" qualification in automotive transportation, a candidate must pass an examination on Japanese traffic rules and industry-specific cargo-loading methods. The exam was offered for the first time in December 2024, and more than 200 people have passed, according to Nikkei Asia.

Hiroshima-based Fukuyama Transporting is training driver candidates in Vietnam and offering language courses and driving tests. It plans to hire 15 long-haul drivers around summer 2026.

Osaka-based Sakai Moving Service has be...