Japan trade data shows exports in June higher than expected

Japan’s June trade data showed both exports and imports rising more than expected and improving from May, signaling firmer external demand for the Japanese economy. Exports to key regions were strong, with shipments to China up 17.6% year over year, to Asia up 22.7%, to the U.S. up 13%, and to the EU up 20.3%. The release is supportive for Japan’s growth outlook and can modestly underpin the yen and Japanese equities by suggesting trade momentum is holding up despite global uncertainties. The article notes the data only and points to further analysis elsewhere.