Japan's GDP growth rate measures the expansion of the world's fourth-largest economy. Published quarterly by the Cabinet Office, it captures the total value of goods and services produced in Japan.
Why It Matters
Japan battles structurally low growth due to an aging population and decades of deflationary pressures. Even small changes in GDP growth carry significant policy implications for the Bank of Japan (BOJ).
Unique Challenges
Japan has experienced persistent deflation since the 1990s "Lost Decade." The BOJ has employed extraordinary monetary policies including negative interest rates and yield curve control to combat this.
Key Drivers
Exports (especially automotive, electronics, machinery), domestic consumption, government spending, and business investment.
Market Impact
Strong GDP supports the yen and Japanese equities (Nikkei/TOPIX). However, stronger growth can also accelerate BOJ policy normalization expectations, which impacts global carry trades.