Japan's Export Growth Slows Amid US Tariffs, China's Lunar Holidays

• Japan's export growth slowed to 4.2% in February, impacted by US tariffs on auto shipments and reduced demand from China's Lunar New Year.
• Exports to the US fell 8%, primarily due to a 14.8% decline in auto shipments by value, despite Japanese automakers using price reductions.
• The trade balance recorded an unadjusted surplus of ¥57.3 billion, with imports rising 10.2%.
• Exports to the EU saw a 14% increase, driven by strong performance in automobiles and mining/construction equipment.
• The global economic outlook is clouded by the war in Iran, raising inflation risks due to rising oil prices, though a weaker yen aids exporters.