Japanese automakers to restructure factory calendars from FY 2027 for better work-life balance

The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association disclosed plans to overhaul factory calendars beginning fiscal 2027, cutting production on national holidays and syncing weekday breaks with Japan's standard calendar. Under the new system, weekdays that fall within Golden Week will become regular working days, while certain Monday holidays that were previously workdays will be designated as days off, keeping the overall count of operating days unchanged.

Executives from Toyota Motor Corp., Honda Motor Co. and other leading manufacturers, who have long kept plants open on weekday holidays, will implement the shift to improve employee work-life balance. Toshihiro Suzuki, president of Suzuki Motor Corp. and vice chairman of the association, said the move should let workers recharge and boost daily productivity. The adjustment will ripple through the supply chain, prompting parts suppliers to realign deliveries. A union spokesperson welcomed the initiative, noting it could open dialogue on further increasing days off.