Japan's trade deficit narrows in April

Japan’s trade deficit narrowed to 432.41 billion in April. Japan’s exports increased by just 2.6 percent in April compared to the same period last year. Imports, meanwhile, fell on an annual basis for the first time in 27 months. They fell by 2.3 percent in April, above expectations of 0.3 percent. Japan’s trade deficit narrowed by almost half in April, from 854.93 billion a year earlier to 432.41 billion. Imports fell by 2.3 percent annually, above economists’ expectations of 0.3 percent. Exports were largely in line with expectations, rising by 2.6 percent annually, compared to expectations of 3 percent. Exports had risen by 4.3 percent in March. Exports to China, Japan’s largest trading partner, fell by 2.9 percent in April compared to the same period last year. Vehicle, vehicle parts and steel exports fell. Exports to China have been falling for the past five months. They also fell by 7.7 percent in March.