Japan’s economy showed surprising resilience even though there were speculations of contractions. Q1 GDP grew 0.5% qoq versus expectations -0.1% qoq. Annualized, GDP grew 2.1%. However, the details are rather weak indeed. Consumer spending dropped -0.1% qoq. Business spending also dropped -0.3% qoq. Exports also had the biggest contraction since 2015. The figures argue that Japan might be entering into a mild recession
Economy Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, nevertheless, hailed that Japan’s economic fundamentals remain sound, supported by strong domestic demand, which is continuing up trend. Also, employment and income environments have improved while corporate profits are high.
Though, the government will watch the impact of trade tensions carefully. Exports are already slowing, and output remains weak due to China’s economic slowdown. Some manufacturers are also delaying capital spending, leading to decline in capital expenditure.
