As Japan becomes increasingly globalized, so does its workforce.

Back when the government began a survey of trends in the business activities of foreign companies in the country half a century ago, just over 600 firms were subjects of examination.

The latest results of this survey covering the fiscal year through March 2017 shows that the number of foreign affiliates where the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry sent out questionnaires last year was more than nine-fold, totaling 5,662.