With Japan's population aging, the country faces a growing labor shortage and ongoing debates about bringing in more foreign workers. The economist quoted argues this may not solve the root problem. The real issue is insufficient wage offers to attract workers rather than a true shortage of labor. While foreign workers are gradually increasing and helping some firms, their presence may limit workers' opportunities for wage growth and reduce incentives for companies to improve conditions. For the economy, investing in automation could still boost efficiency, but overreliance on foreign labor risks dampening wage growth and could threaten workers' jobs if a downturn hits. If firms hire foreigners instead of automation, long-term productivity gains and labor mobility could be hindered.