In brief
Japan’s industrial output rose 2.2 % in September, the first uptick in three months, according to preliminary data from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. The gain was led by motor vehicles, production machinery and general‑purpose machinery, while sectors like iron, steel and nonferrous metals fell. The ministry projects further expansion in October and November and notes modest rises in shipments and inventories.
On Friday, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry released preliminary data showing industrial output in the country climbed 2.2 percent in September, the first increase in three months. The rise was largely powered by a rebound in automobile production.
Sector‑by‑Sector Performance
The seasonally adjusted index of production at factories and mines hit 104.1 against the 2020 base of 100. Output grew in eight sectors, led by motor vehicles, production machinery, and general‑purpose and business‑oriented machinery. Seven other sectors, including iron, steel and nonferrous metals, posted declines.
Output in September increased 2.2 % from August, which had seen a 2.4 % contraction.
The ministry’s survey projects output to rise 5.1 % in October and 0.8 % in November.
Additionally, the index of industrial shipments edged up 0.6 % from the previous month, reaching 101.0, while the inventory index rose 2.5 % to 99.9.
These figures are preliminary; the ministry will publish final data in the coming weeks and will update its forecasts accordingly.
