Japan: Trade Balance: Monthly Value

Macro

2026-06-17

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 balance for the second quarter of 2026 (May) reported a deficit of 378.67 billion yen, halting the previous month's surplus trend, but still better than market expectations. The AI boom drove a surge of over 50% in both semiconductor import and export values, serving as dual engines for trade expansion. Despite strong export momentum, the weak yen continues to amplify the pressure of overall import costs.

AI Data Insight

Japan's trade balance for the second quarter of 2026 (May) reported a deficit of 378.67 billion yen, halting the previous month's surplus trend, but still better than market expectations. The AI boom drove a surge of over 50% in both semiconductor import and export values, serving as dual engines for trade expansion. Despite strong export momentum, the weak yen continues to amplify the pressure of overall import costs.

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