Flag of Japan. Photo by Kulbir on Pexels.com
Japan’s gauge of current economic activity slipped in February, reversing gains from the previous month, government data showed.
Preliminary figures released on Tuesday indicated that the composite index of coincident indicators fell by 1.6 points to 116.3, based on the 2020 benchmark.
The Cabinet Office kept its overall view of the economy unchanged, noting that conditions were showing signs of leveling off after earlier improvements.
The decline was attributed largely to weaker output and shipments in key industries, particularly electronic parts and semiconductor-related equipment.
Exports to China also softened during the period, reflecting slower business activity tied to the Lunar New Year holiday.
Despite the drop in current indicators, the outlook for the months ahead showed modest improvement.
The leading index, which signals future economic trends, edged up by 0.3 point to 112.4, extending its streak of monthly gains.
Officials said the increase was supported by firmer stock market performance and a slight pickup in consumer sentiment as inflation pressures eased.
