US EditionPublished • loading... • Updated
Japan’s exports surge 17% in January, on strong shipments to China and other Asian markets
Exports to Asia surged 26% in January, driven by strong demand for semiconductors and computer components amid AI growth, narrowing Japan's trade deficit to about 1.15 trillion yen.
- On February 18, 2026, Japan's Finance Ministry reported exports surged 16.8% in January to 9.19 trillion yen, boosted by strong Asian demand.
- Facing a later Lunar New Year on February 17, analysts said seasonal factors and stronger Asian demand helped lift early‑year exports, reflecting front‑loading shipments.
- Shipments to China jumped 32%, exports to all of Asia surged 26%, and exports bound for the European Union expanded 29.6%.
- January's stronger shipments provided the largest increase since November 2022, narrowing Japan's trade deficit to 1.15 trillion yen, below forecasts, and boosting GDP growth prospects.
- Takeshi Minami, chief economist at Norinchukin Research Institute, said the January surge is largely due to temporary factors, while momentum remains fragile despite the September U.S.-Japan trade deal with Washington setting a 15% tariff.
Insights by Ground AI
26 Articles
26 Articles
Modern DiplomacyReposted by 
Europe Says
Europe SaysJapan’s Export Surge Sparks Hope But IMF Warns Storm Clouds Still Loom
Japan’s exports surged in January and business confidence improved in February, offering cautious relief for policymakers seeking to stabilise a fragile recovery. The data suggests strong regional demand, particularly from Asia, may help support growth. However, the International Monetary fund warned that risks remain skewed to the downside due to trade tensions, weak domestic demand, […] The post Japan’s Export Surge Sparks Hope But IMF Warns S…
Associated Press News+12 Reposted by 12 other sources
Japan's exports surge 17% in January, on strong shipments to China and other Asian markets
Japan has reported its exports surged nearly 17% in January from a year earlier, on strong shipments to China and other Asian markets.
·United States
Read Full Article
Coverage Details
Total News Sources26
Leaning Left5Leaning Right5Center9Last UpdatedBias Distribution48% Center
Bias Distribution
- 48% of the sources are Center
48% Center
L 26%
C 48%
R 26%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
