MHLW

The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) is a cabinet-level ministry of the Government of Japan responsible for national policy in health, medical care, welfare and labor. It was established in 2001 through a major reorganization that merged the former Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Labour to coordinate health, social welfare and employment policy under one body.

The MHLW oversees health policy and public health, regulation of pharmaceuticals and medical devices, hospital care and services for the elderly and disabled, child welfare, and broad labor-related programs such as employment services, workers’ safety and industrial standards. It administers social security programs, including health insurance and welfare services, and works with prefectural and municipal authorities to deliver services.

The ministry is led by the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare and maintains a Secretariat along with several policy bureaus and specialized agencies. Public organizations under or affiliated with the MHLW include the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) and various health and welfare research institutes.

Internationally, the MHLW represents Japan in multilateral health and labor forums, implements international health guidelines, and coordinates with other ministries on cross-border health and safety issues. Notable policy areas encompass the long-term care insurance system introduced around 2000, the regulation of medicines and medical devices, and policies related to employment, labor standards and social welfare.