The slowdown in economic growth has been driven by weak investment, a shrinking working-age population, and sluggish multifactor productivity growth. Trend labour productivity growth has been declining despite some recent recovery. Capital intensity has stayed low, contributing little to productivity gains. Meanwhile, employment has risen, reflecting notably an increase in part-time work among women.
Reducing regulatory barriers to competition and easing restrictions on services trade would boost investment and enhance productivity by enabling a more efficient allocation of resources and by boosting investment. Accelerating the rollout of digital infrastructure would further support productivity growth. Improving the inclusiveness of the education system and labour market—by directing resources to those with greater needs and expanding early childhood education and childcare facilities—would promote better labour market participation and higher incomes, particularly for women and migrants.