Workplaces that hire foreigners under a government-sponsored trainee program are set to come under greater scrutiny following the launch of a new oversight body aimed at stamping out human rights abuses.

The body, set up on Wednesday in line with a law enacted in November, is authorized to conduct on-site inspections at companies and organizations suspected of making trainees work long hours and at low pay.

It will also introduce trainees who are working under bad conditions to other companies or organizations.

Headquartered in Tokyo, the body plans to set up offices in 13 locations throughout Japan.

Japan introduced the training program for foreigners in 1993 with the aim of transferring skills to developing countries. It currently covers dozens of job categories, chiefly in the construction, manufacturing, agriculture and fishery industries.

But the scheme has faced criticism both within and outside Japan as a cover for importing cheap labor.

There have been reports of harsh working conditions, including illegally long work hours and nonpayment of wages.