Data released in Japan reveals that the nation's economy is...

Data released in Japan reveals that the nation's economy is in a fragile state, but the recovery appears to remain on track, at least for now. According to the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, industrial production declined by 3.4% in September compared to the previous month but increased by 1.6% for the quarter. Company surveys indicate that output will increase by 3.4% in October and 0.5% in November, suggesting that production will rise for the sixth consecutive quarter in the October-December period. In addition, consumer spending increased by 1% in September compared to the previous month, rising for the first time in five months, but fell by 2.9% for the quarter and 1.9% from a year earlier, according to the ministry.

Sunday, 29 October, 2000