Japan logs trade surplus in April-Sept.

October 19, 2017

TOKYO- Japan logged a customs-cleared trade surplus for the fourth straight fiscal half-year period in April-September, though down from a year before, the Finance Ministry said Thursday.

The surplus fell 20.3 percent to 1,919 billion yen as imports grew at a faster pace than exports, the ministry said in a preliminary report.

Imports gained 15.3 percent to 36,454.9 billion yen due mainly to higher prices for commodities such as coal and liquefied natural gas. Exports increased 12.8 percent to 38,373.8 billion yen, led by vehicle exports to the United States.

In trade with the United States, Japan's surplus rose 8.7 percent to 3,383.8 billion yen, marking the first increase in three half-year periods.

Exports to the United States climbed 10.6 percent, the first rise in four half-year periods, driven up by increased auto and auto parts shipments. Imports rose 12.1 percent, led by LNG and aircraft engines. Jiji Press