Japan's government halted new Specified Skilled Worker visas for the dining sector after workers neared the cap, highlighting the industry's stubborn labor shortage as costs rise. Data show 2025 restaurant bankruptcies reached 1,002, the highest in 30 years, with Japanese restaurants leading in closures; rising food, energy and logistics costs, along with higher wages, hit small eateries hardest, while large chains could partly offset costs. Critics argue Prime Minister Takai's hardline stance risks smothering Japan's cherished dining culture, though officials say the impact is limited since only about 46,000 of 4.05 million hospitality workers are on the Specified Skilled Worker program, and the policy is meant to supplement domestic hiring.