Tech Layoffs Early 2026: Global Country Breakdown

The global tech sector has seen a sharp rise in layoffs in the opening weeks of 2026, with over 30,700 jobs cut worldwide since January 1, according to aggregated data from RationalFX, TrueUp, TechCrunch, WARN filings, and other trackers. As of mid-February 2026, the pace averages around 850–870 jobs lost per day across more than 100 companies. These reductions are largely driven by AI integration, cost-cutting, macroeconomic pressures, and strategic pivots toward high-growth areas like cloud and generative AI.

While most announcements span January and February (with many large cuts announced in late January but taking effect or reported into February), the distribution shows a heavy concentration in certain countries. The United States dominates, accounting for roughly 80% of the total, followed by select European nations and emerging tech hubs in Asia.

Top Countries Affected by Tech Layoffs in 2026 (YTD as of Mid-February)

• United States — 24,600 layoffs (≈80% of global total) The overwhelming majority of cuts originate here, spanning dozens of companies including Amazon (16,000+ announced in January), Meta, Salesforce, Workday, Autodesk, and others. February-specific impacts include Salesforce (~1,000), Workday (~400), and xAI reorganizations. US-based firms drive most global reductions, with WARN notices and corporate filings highlighting enterprise software, e-commerce, and AI-related streamlining.
• Sweden — 1,900 layoffs Primarily from Ericsson’s restructuring (announced January, affecting ~1,600–1,900 in Sweden), tied to slower 5G demand and cost efficiencies.
• Netherlands — 1,700 layoffs Largely attributed to ASML (semiconductor equipment), with cuts targeting management and IT roles to reduce bureaucracy despite strong sales.
• India — 920 layoffs India leads Asia in reported cuts, affecting various tech and software firms amid global realignments. Specific company details remain limited, but the figure reflects broader offshore and product team adjustments.
• Israel — 774 layoffs Impacts on local tech ecosystem players, often tied to multinational operations and startup funding pressures.

Other notable mentions include:

• Czech Republic — ~250 layoffs
• Germany — ~200 layoffs
• Argentina — ~119 layoffs
• France — ~114 layoffs
• British Virgin Islands — ~60 layoffs (notable due to blockchain firm Polygon, placing this small territory in the top 10)

Europe collectively accounts for around 4,200 layoffs (second to the US), while Asia and other regions show smaller but growing numbers. Reporting from China remains limited, and countries like Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia have not yet shown significant figures in early trackers.

Key Insights and Outlook

These early 2026 numbers (30,700–39,000 depending on the source, e.g., TrueUp reports 39,132 across 102 events) suggest the year could surpass 2025’s ~245,000 total tech job losses if trends persist, potentially reaching 270,000+. AI is frequently cited as a driver (or justification), though experts debate “AI-washing” for broader cost controls.

For tech professionals, especially in high-impact regions like the US, Sweden, Netherlands, and India, the focus remains on upskilling in AI, cloud, and emerging technologies to navigate the shifts.

Stay informed on the latest global tech layoffs, country-specific trends, and career resources at www.worldreport.press. If you’re impacted, explore job transition support, resume tools, and AI-focused training opportunities to adapt to the evolving market.

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