TOKYO, Jan. 31 (Xinhua) -- Japan's industrial output expanded for the first time in two months in December 2024, driven by higher production of industrial machinery and electronic components, according to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
The seasonally adjusted index of production at factories and mines in the reporting month stood at 102.1 against the 2020 base of 100, up 0.3 percent from the previous month, preliminary data from the ministry showed.
Of the 15 surveyed industries, five recorded growth. The production in the machinery sector rose by 2.9 percent, supported by increased overseas orders for chemical machinery and industrial robots. The electronic components and devices sector also saw a 2.1 percent increase due to higher foreign demand.
The METI forecasted production growth in January and February, but maintained its overall assessment as "fluctuating." Officials also noted concerns about uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policies under the new administration, which could impact corporate production plans. ■
