Japan's trade surplus hits JPY 130.94B in December

Japan’s trade surplus surged to JPY 130.94 billion in December 2024, a significant increase from JPY 32.35 billion in the same month the previous year, surpassing market expectations of a JPY 55 billion deficit.

Japan's trade surplus hits JPY 130.94B in December

This marked the first trade surplus since June, driven by more substantial export growth than imports. Exports rose by 2.8% year-on-year to a record JPY 9,910.60 billion, exceeding the expected 2.3% increase and marking the third consecutive month of growth. Meanwhile, imports grew by 1.8% to JPY 9,779.67 billion, reaching a five-month high and reversing the previous month’s 3.8% decline, although they still fell short of the forecasted 2.3% rise.

Japan's 2024 trade deficit shrinks to JPY 5.33 trillion

Japan’s trade deficit amounted to JPY 5,332.56 billion for the entire year, significantly smaller than the JPY 9,522.07 billion shortfall recorded in 2023. This indicates an improvement in Japan's trade balance despite the challenges faced throughout the year.