Japan Exports Rise Steadily in September, Boosted by Chip and Auto Shipments

Japan's export performance remained robust in September, supported by growth in chip and auto shipments. Japan's Ministry of Finance reported Wednesday that exports rose 16.7% year-on-year in September, below the economists' median forecast of 21.3%. Exports have grown for 13 consecutive months. Imports also rose 18.9%, falling short of the expected 20.4%. The unadjusted trade deficit narrowed significantly to 536 billion yen (approximately $3.4 billion) from a 1.1 trillion yen deficit in August.