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Nomura’s successful campaign to reduce smoking among its employees was highlighted during the annual investor day. In a detailed presentation outlining various targets, Nomura reported a significant decrease in the number of smokers among its workforce. From 21.4% in 2018, the smoking rate had dropped to 14.9% by the end of March last year.
Based in Tokyo, Nomura initiated the anti-smoking initiative in 2018 with the aim of promoting employee health and improving workplace conditions. The company took measures such as closing smoking rooms in offices, providing subsidies for smoking cessation products, and eliminating the traditional 10-minute cigarette break. Employees who take a cigarette break are required to wait 45 minutes before returning to work to ensure that any lingering smell of smoke dissipates.
Nomura has set a target to further reduce the smoking rate among its staff to 12% by March 2026. Other prominent Japanese companies, including SoftBank, Itochu, and Disco, have also implemented similar anti-smoking policies.
The efforts of Nomura align with a larger national initiative to reduce smoking in Japan. Several cities, including Tokyo, have strict regulations on smoking in public areas. The Japanese government aims to decrease the adult smoking rate to 12% by 2033, as reported by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. This marks a significant decline from the peak smoking rate in the 1960s when nearly half of the adult population smoked.
Despite the anti-smoking trend, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, a known smoker, has expressed challenges in quitting due to his busy schedule. In a parliamentary session, Ishiba mentioned that he would require more time to successfully kick the habit.
The fight against tobacco use continues to gain momentum in Japan, with companies like Nomura leading the way in promoting a healthier workplace environment. Stay informed with the latest updates by subscribing to the Editor’s Digest for exclusive insights from the Editor of the FT.
