Japan: Trade Balance: Monthly Value

Macro

2026-04-22

Description

Japan Trade Balance: Current Month Value is released by the Ministry of Finance (MOF). This indicator measures the difference between the value of merchandise exports and imports during a given month. A positive trade balance signifies a trade surplus, meaning exports exceeded imports, which can be a sign of economic strength. Conversely, a negative trade balance represents a trade deficit, meaning imports surpassed exports, which can be a sign of economic weakness.

The trade balance is calculated by subtracting the total value of imports from the total value of exports for the month. These figures are collected from customs data and other relevant sources.

The data is updated monthly and is typically released around the 20th of the following month.

Published by
Ministry of Finance of Japan (Choice)
Frequency
Monthly
Next Update

AI Data Insight

Japan's trade surplus for March 2026 (Q1 2026) reached 666.977 billion yen, leaping significantly from 57.269 billion yen in the previous month, maintaining a surplus for the second consecutive month, but still below the expected 1.1 trillion yen. Benefiting from strong demand for semiconductors and electronic components, the single-month export value hit a record high; however, the yen's depreciation and high energy prices have also significantly driven up import costs. Looking ahead, oil price fluctuations caused by Middle East geopolitics and U.S. trade policies will be key factors determining whether Japan's surplus can continue.

AI Data Insight

Japan's trade surplus for March 2026 (Q1 2026) reached 666.977 billion yen, leaping significantly from 57.269 billion yen in the previous month, maintaining a surplus for the second consecutive month, but still below the expected 1.1 trillion yen. Benefiting from strong demand for semiconductors and electronic components, the single-month export value hit a record high; however, the yen's depreciation and high energy prices have also significantly driven up import costs. Looking ahead, oil price fluctuations caused by Middle East geopolitics and U.S. trade policies will be key factors determining whether Japan's surplus can continue.

Description

Japan Trade Balance: Current Month Value is released by the Ministry of Finance (MOF). This indicator measures the difference between the value of merchandise exports and imports during a given month. A positive trade balance signifies a trade surplus, meaning exports exceeded imports, which can be a sign of economic strength. Conversely, a negative trade balance represents a trade deficit, meaning imports surpassed exports, which can be a sign of economic weakness.

The trade balance is calculated by subtracting the total value of imports from the total value of exports for the month. These figures are collected from customs data and other relevant sources.

The data is updated monthly and is typically released around the 20th of the following month.

Published by
Ministry of Finance of Japan (Choice)
Frequency
Monthly
Next Update