Japan posted a trade deficit for a 20th consecutive month in March, reflecting the effects of a weak yen and high energy prices.
The country’s trade deficit hit Y754.5 billion ($5.60 billion) in March, compared with a Y897.7 billion deficit in February, according to data released by the Ministry of Finance on Thursday.
Imports rose 7.3% from a year earlier.
Exports rose 4.3% in March from a year earlier, weaker than February’s 6.5% increase. The rise in exports was, however, stronger than the 2.4% increase forecast by economists surveyed by data provider FactSet.
Exports were mainly driven by overseas demand for autos and semiconductor manufacturing equipment.
