TOKYO, Nov. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Japanese government has maintained its assessment that the country's economy is recovering gradually despite some areas of stagnation.
In its monthly economic report for November, Japan's Cabinet Office observed mixed trends in consumer spending.
While a persistent rise in food prices has driven cost-saving behaviors, recovery in automobile sales, which had previously declined due to certification irregularities, has contributed to an improved outlook.
For business investment, the government reiterated that investments in areas such as software remain solid.
The outlook for imports was upgraded for the first time in six months. Increased imports of products such as mobile phones and automobiles were cited as the reason for the revision.
All taken into consideration, the Cabinet Office reaffirmed its overall view, describing the economy as "recovering gradually despite some areas of stagnation," marking the fourth consecutive month without a change.
However, the report also highlighted uncertainties that could affect the economy's trajectory. It emphasized the need to closely monitor the potential impacts of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's forthcoming policy directions, rising prices, and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. ■