20:09 - 14.07.2026

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July 14, Fineko/abc.az. Japan's industrial production grew for the second consecutive month, though at a weaker pace than forecast: +0.1% month-on-month in May (against an expected +0.5%; after a +0.5% growth in April).

The expansion was driven by chemicals (+4.6%), petroleum products (+9.1%), and non-automotive transport equipment (+2.8%), whereas the output of machinery and business equipment (-6.0%), electronics (-5.1%), and production equipment (-3.5%) declined.

On an annual basis, industrial output contracted by 2.1%, marking the first year-on-year drop in six months. The sector continues to face pressure from supply chain risks and high energy costs amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.