In 2023, there were 586 full-time equivalent researchers in the sector of manufacturing wood and related products in Japan. From 2024 to 2028, the number of researchers is projected to decline steadily, indicating a year-on-year decrease of approximately 3.2% by 2025, then continuing at a similar rate annually. By 2028, the number is expected to drop to 498, implying a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around -3.2% over the 5-year period.

Future trends to watch for:

Adoption of automation and advanced technologies which could influence labor needs.
Potential shifts in environmental regulations affecting the industry dynamically.
Fluctuations in global demand for sustainable products potentially altering research focus.
Government or private initiatives aimed at revitalizing traditional industries.