economy
February 18, 2026
Japan exports growth surges to over 3-year high, up nearly 17% in January, as shipments to China soar
Value of exports to China, Japan's largest trading partner, jumped 32%, after rising 5.6% in December.

TL;DR
- Japanese exports increased by 16.8% in January, the fastest rate since November 2022.
- Shipments to Asia and Western Europe saw significant growth, contributing to the overall surge.
- Exports to China, Japan's largest trading partner, jumped by 32%.
- Imports fell by 2.5% in January, a contrast to the export growth.
- A new trade deal with the U.S. includes a Japanese pledge of $550 billion in investments.
- Key growth commodities included food, machinery, and electrical machinery.
- Previous export performance in 2025 was impacted by U.S. tariffs but saw a rebound after a trade deal was announced.
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