FX.co ★ Japan’s Overtime Pay Growth Cools in December, Signaling Softer Wage Momentum

Japan’s overtime pay growth slowed in December 2025, suggesting a moderation in wage pressures at the end of the year. According to the latest data updated on 8 February 2026, overtime pay rose 0.90% year-over-year in December, down from a 1.20% year-over-year increase recorded in November 2025.

The figures are based on a year-over-year comparison, with the “actual” showing how overtime pay in December 2025 changed from December 2024, and the “previous” reflecting November 2025 against November 2024. The deceleration from November to December points to a potential easing in additional labor cost pressures, a closely watched element in assessing the strength and sustainability of Japan’s wage and income trends.