Japanese Language Skills: Key to Vietnam’s Growing IT Industry

What if knowing Japanese could unlock a world of opportunities in the booming IT sector? As Vietnam’s tech industry continues to expand and forge stronger connections with Japan, the demand for programmers who are proficient in Japanese has skyrocketed. This language skill has become not only an asset but a necessity for those looking to work on international projects, collaborate with Japanese clients, and elevate their careers.

This blog aims to explore the current state of Japanese language skills among developers in Vietnam, examining how it influences their work, the demand for bilingual professionals, and how companies like VTI are addressing this growing need.

Vietnam Becomes Japan’s Second-Largest IT Partner

Japanese IT companies are increasingly seeking Vietnamese developers to address several critical challenges in their industry. One of the primary reasons is Japan’s aging population and declining birth rate, which have resulted in a significant shortage of skilled workers in the technology sector. According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry of Japan (METI), the country is projected to face a shortfall of over 450,000 IT professionals by 2030. To fill this gap, Japanese companies are turning to Vietnam, with a large pool of young, talented, and tech-savvy professionals.

Vietnamese developers, in particular, are valued for their adaptability and high-quality work. Vietnam has consistently ranked among the top outsourcing destinations globally, with major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City becoming hubs for IT talent. Japanese companies appreciate the technical expertise, strong problem-solving skills, and growing proficiency in Japanese language among Vietnamese developers. This combination enables smoother collaboration and ensures that projects meet Japan’s stringent quality and efficiency standards.

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Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of hiring Vietnamese programmers makes Vietnam an attractive option. Compared to the high salaries required for IT professionals in Japan, outsourcing to Vietnam allows Japanese companies to achieve significant savings while maintaining quality. Coupled with the geographical proximity and similar time zones, Vietnam becomes an ideal partner for Japanese IT companies looking to expand their capabilities and scale their operations effectively.

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Why Do Developers Need to Know Japanese?

Japan is one of the leading investors in Vietnam’s information technology (IT) sector. According to statistics from VINASA, Japan accounts for approximately 60% of Vietnam’s software export market, with thousands of projects launched annually. This indicates that Japanese proficiency is not just an advantage but a critical factor for programmers aiming to enter this market.

In addition to high demand from businesses, knowing Japanese opens the door to advanced technical resources. Japan leads the world in technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). Many technical documents have not been translated into other widely used languages, such as English, making Japanese an essential tool for learning and development.

Moreover, Japanese companies tend to prioritize hiring candidates with language skills. A survey by JETRO revealed that 80% of Japanese businesses in Vietnam prefer hiring employees with Japanese proficiency, mainly because direct communication minimizes risks during project collaboration and execution.

Jobs That Require Japanese Language Skills

Knowing Japanese not only allows programmers to participate in regular software projects but also opens doors to various specialized roles within the tech industry. Some common positions include:

• Bridge System Engineer (BrSE): A Bridge System Engineer’s responsibilities extend beyond programming, requiring them to communicate directly with clients, analyze requirements, plan projects, and ensure smooth collaboration between teams. Salaries for BrSE typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month, depending on experience and language proficiency.

• Software Developer: Developing software or applications tailored for the Japanese market requires a deep understanding of both the language and the culture of the users. This is especially important in fields like game development, medical applications, and financial systems, where user expectations and local regulations differ significantly.

• Software Tester: Japanese companies have a reputation for demanding high-quality products. Testers in these companies must do more than just identify bugs—they also ensure that the product meets Japan’s strict standards. Knowledge of Japanese allows testers to read technical documents, communicate with clients, and suggest product improvements that align with local expectations.

• Technical Support and System Operations: This role requires flexibility in communication, especially when addressing technical issues and supporting Japanese clients. It’s a crucial position in IT outsourcing companies, where direct interaction with Japanese clients and understanding of their technical requirements are key.

• IT Comtor (IT Coordinator/Translator): The IT Comtor role is gaining traction in the tech industry. Comtors act as intermediaries between Japanese clients and development teams, ensuring clear and effective communication. Their work includes translating technical documents, facilitating meetings, and ensuring the smooth flow of information between both parties. 

Highlights in the Current State of Japanese-Proficient Developers in Vietnam

In recent years, the number of Vietnamese developers with Japanese proficiency has been increasing. According to TopDev, around 20% of Vietnamese programmers now have Japanese language skills at N3 level or higher. This shows the growing importance of Japanese language learning in the tech industry.

Large tech companies have implemented internal Japanese training programs, enabling employees to achieve JLPT certification in a short time. Additionally, Japanese businesses in Vietnam offer scholarships or tuition support for employees who wish to learn Japanese.

Another prominent trend is the rise of collaborative training programs between Vietnam and Japan, such as the “10,000 Bridge Engineers” initiative. This aims to train a high-tech workforce capable of working across borders, helping Vietnamese programmers seize opportunities at Japan’s leading companies.

Cultural Differences Developers Should Be Aware of When Working with Japanese Clients

One prominent characteristic of Japanese clients is their meticulous and careful approach. This means developers must strictly adhere to quality standards, processes, and deadlines. In Japan, deadlines are not just “final dates” but also a reflection of commitment and responsibility.

Additionally, the Japanese culture of striving for perfection imposes high expectations for accuracy. Even minor errors in documents or reports may require reviewing the entire process. While this can feel stressful, it also serves as an opportunity for programmers to develop discipline and systematic thinking.

Paying attention to communication etiquette is another essential aspect. For instance, using the correct honorifics in emails or during meetings can leave a positive impression and help build trust with Japanese clients.

Learning Japanese: Turning Challenges Into Career Opportunities

Learning Japanese is a challenging journey, especially for those juggling work and study. However, a well-structured study plan can help you turn difficulties into opportunities:

• Select Focused Learning Materials: Programmers should concentrate on specialized vocabulary, such as terms related to IT, software engineering, or project management. Resources like “IT用語辞典” (IT Terminology Dictionary) are valuable references.

• Learn Through Real-World Work: Participating in projects with Japanese clients is one of the fastest ways to learn the language. Use opportunities like exchanging emails, attending virtual meetings, or writing reports to enhance communication skills.

• Leverage Technology for Learning: Applications like Anki, WaniKani, and LingoDeer can help improve Kanji reading and grammar skills.

• Join Japanese Learning Communities: Connect with others who share the goal of learning Japanese through groups on platforms like Facebook, Discord, or Meetup.

VTI: Shaping High-Quality Talent to Collaborate with Japan

VTI has taken significant steps to address the shortage of Japanese-speaking professionals through strategic initiatives. By establishing branches in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka with over 150 staff working directly with Japanese clients, the company has ensured smooth communication, prompt customer support, and faster response times. 

With years of experience in training, education, and developing human resources for Japan, VTI has successfully sent hundreds of Vietnamese students to Japan to study and work, gaining valuable knowledge and building their careers.

Additionally, VTI Mirai organizes internal Japanese language courses ranging from N5 to N1, allowing employees to progress from basic to advanced levels and better prepare for projects with Japanese clients. Moreover, the BrSE training program (VTI TAKUMI) helps software engineers develop both language skills and technical expertise, opening doors to international career opportunities. These efforts have helped VTI build a strong team of professionals capable of meeting the growing demands of the Japanese market.

Contact VTI to learn how we can help your business address the Japanese shortage.