Japan's economy expands at 2.1% annual pace, boosted by consumer spending

Business Standard
2026.05.18 20:08
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Japan's economy grew at an annualized rate of 2.1% in Q1, supported by consumer and government spending, despite rising energy prices due to the Iran war. Private consumption rose 0.3% quarter-on-quarter. Imports increased by 0.5% and exports by 1.7%. Analysts predict moderate growth driven by spending on AI and defense, while inflation pressures may lead to interest rate hikes. The Nikkei 225 index fell 0.6% amid these developments.