Published on: August 12, 2026

Greater Asia Retirement Survey - Japan Market

Authors: Xiao Xu , FSA, CERA, FIAA, CFA, FRM, CA, CPA, PhD; Jae Ho, Chief Executive Officer, RGA Taiwan

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Summary 

Residents of Japan show improving retirement engagement, but preparedness remains uneven and confidence is limited. Retirees are more active planners, while younger residents face gaps in savings, employer-plan participation, and financial knowledge. Tax increases, healthcare costs, inflation, and pension reductions remain leading concerns. 

Key Findings 

  1. Retirees are the most prepared, especially in reviewing pension benefits and estimating retirement income. 
  2. Confidence remains low, with only 37% believing they have enough savings for retirement. 
  3. Tax increases and pension reductions are leading concerns, along with healthcare costs and inflation. 
  4. Employer-plan participation is limited, with only 36% of workers currently contributing. 
  5. Health concerns exceed insurance ownership, particularly for dementia and long-term care coverage. 

Suggested Citation 

Xaio Xu, Jae Ho. Retirement Readiness in Japan. Society of Actuaries Research Institute, August 2026. https://www.soa.org/resources/research-reports/greater-asia-retirement-survey/japan-market

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Authors: Xiao Xu , FSA, CERA, FIAA, CFA, FRM, CA, CPA, PhD; Jae Ho, Chief Executive Officer, RGA Taiwan
Published on: August 12, 2026
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