Japan's prime minister said his country needs to attract more people with professional skills from other countries, and would consider reforms of its residency program.

Kishida Fumio told reporters on Saturday that nations around the world are competing fiercely to attract people with high levels of knowledge and skills.

He said Japan is not doing enough compared to other countries that offer preferential residency status to highly skilled professionals.

Kishida also said creating an appealing living environment is just as important as institutional reforms. He said this requires improving access to healthcare and education, and encouraging communities and society to be more open and hospitable.