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New research shows the concept of a four-day workweek is gaining traction in Asia as both companies and employees search for greater work-life balance and increased productivity.
Amid rising business costs and an aging labor force, the idea has become more than just a fringe concept — it’s now a serious consideration for businesses across the region.
A recent survey conducted by Robert Walters, covering over 5,000 professionals and companies across 11 Asian markets, shows that 89% of professionals are eager to try the compressed work schedule, and 66% of employers say they find it feasible. However, only a quarter of these businesses are likely to take steps toward implementation.
The major concerns holding companies back include increased business costs, potential disruptions to customer service, and the challenge of implementing the model across diverse roles.
It’s revealed that in markets like Southeast Asia, where commuting costs and time spent at work are significant factors, professionals are particularly enthusiastic about the potential benefits of a shorter workweek. This region — which includes Indonesia, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam — shows as many as 92% of Southeast Asian professionals support the idea, with over half (67%) of employers agreeing that it could boost productivity.
Other regions, like Greater China (which includes Hong Kong, Mainland China, and Taiwan), show similar optimism among professionals, but businesses remain hesitant to take concrete action, citing concerns over cost increases and employee stress.
The push for a four-day workweek is largely driven by the promise of improved employee well-being, with 78% of businesses citing this as the key factor in their interest. Professionals are also motivated by practical concerns, such as saving on commuting costs and spending more time with family. However, not all regions are showing the same level of optimism. In Northeast Asia, only 56% of employers in Japan think a four-day workweek in feasible. Despite the Japanese government’s recent attempts to urge well-known companies like Panasonic to adopt shorter workweeks to address worker burnout, employees remain hesitant.
