Japan's trade deficit in April expanded by 7.6% compared to the previous year, reaching 462.5 billion yen.

The increase in imports, especially of energy and raw materials, contributed to the rise in the deficit.

Japan's trade deficit with China grew, while its surplus with the United States decreased.

Despite growth in exports to Asia, the U.S., and the Middle East, European exports remained stagnant.

The weakening yen has impacted the country's trade balance, increasing costs for imports and boosting foreign remittances for exporters.

Japan's economy contracted in Q1 2024 due to a decline in consumption and exports.

Policymakers are hopeful that export growth will help offset sluggish domestic consumption.

Japan has faced a trade deficit for three consecutive years, losing its position as the world's third-largest economy to Germany.