The Mie Prefectural Government is considering halting the hiring of foreign nationals amid growing concerns over the protection of sensitive information.
Officials said the review is driven by fears of potential leaks involving agricultural production data and residents’ personal details.
Particular concern has been raised over China’s national intelligence law, which obliges Chinese citizens to cooperate with state intelligence agencies.
Prefectural officials believe this legal obligation could pose risks when handling confidential government information.
The issue was formally discussed by officials on Wednesday as part of an internal security review.
The prefecture plans to conduct a public opinion survey in late January before reaching a final decision.
Local residents will be asked to share their views on whether foreign nationals should continue to be eligible for public sector roles.
Mie removed most nationality requirements for government jobs in fiscal 1999 to encourage broader participation in society.
Since then, all but a small number of job categories have been opened to foreign applicants.