Japan Exports Rise 17% in May, Fastest Growth Since 2022

Japan's exports saw a year-on-year increase of 17% in May, surpassing expectations of 16.2% and up from 14.8% in April. Imports also rose by 12.5%, beating the forecast of 12.8%. This growth supports the Bank of Japan's recent policy rate hike to 1%, the highest in over 30 years. The yen traded at 160.4 against the dollar, reflecting continued weakness that impacts both exports and inflation dynamics in the country.