Japan’s exports rose 6% in November compared with a year earlier, supported by a rebound in shipments to the United States for the first time since March. The recovery followed easing concerns over tariffs after a trade agreement lowered planned import duties, helping stabilize trade flows between the two countries.
Preliminary figures showed total imports increased 1.3% year-on-year, resulting in a trade surplus of 322.2 billion yen. Exports to the U.S. climbed nearly 9%, driven by higher shipments of cars, chemicals, and cameras, which offset declines in machinery and iron and steel. At the same time, imports from the U.S. rose sharply, led by oil, grain, and other food products.
Passenger car exports to the U.S. increased by 8% in volume after tariff rates were set at 15% instead of a higher proposed level. However, the value of vehicle exports rose only modestly, suggesting automakers absorbed much of the additional cost rather than passing it on to consumers. Despite stronger imports, Japan still recorded a sizable trade surplus with the U.S., which expanded from a year earlier.
Exports to the European Union surged around 20%, reflecting strong demand for machinery, vehicles, and other manufactured goods. In contrast, shipments to China declined 2.4% amid weaker demand for chemicals, machinery, and vehicles, following heightened diplomatic tensions.
Economists note that while higher tariffs may continue to pressure exports in the near term, Japan’s trade outlook is expected to improve in the coming year, supported by strong U.S. investment in artificial intelligence and related technologies.