According to lastest data, Japan posted a current account surplus of 29.26 trillion yen ($193 billion) in 2024, marking the highest surplus on record, driven by its strong foreign investments and improved trade balance. Here's a closer look at the latest Japan trade data and key trends in exports, imports, and international trade relationships.

Japan's Trade Overview in 2024

Japan's current account surplus in 2024 rose by 29.5% from the previous year, driven primarily by increased returns on foreign investments and a shrinking trade deficit. With a weak yen and higher foreign investment returns, Japan's primary income — a measure of earnings from overseas investments — reached 40.21 trillion yen, a 11.3% increase year-on-year. This was largely attributed to higher returns from offshore subsidiaries, particularly in sectors like finance, retail, and automotive.

On the trade front, Japan's goods trade registered a deficit of 3.90 trillion yen, marking a 40% decrease from the previous year. However, exports increased by 4.5%, reaching 104.87 trillion yen, driven by strong demand for semiconductor-making equipment and vehicles. On the other hand, imports grew by 1.8%, totaling 108.77 trillion yen, due to increased imports of personal computers and nonferrous metals. The growth in imports was tempered by a decline in energy prices, particularly coal and oil.

Key Export Products of Japan in 2024

Automobiles

Japan's largest export category, automobiles, saw a 5% increase in 2024, with exports valued at ¥10.85 trillion (approx. $73 billion). The demand was particularly strong in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Semiconductors and Equipment

Japan remains a major exporter of semiconductors and semiconductor-making equipment. Exports in this category grew by 8%, reaching ¥5.9 trillion (approx. $39.8 billion), driven by demand from industries like AI and automotive.

>>>>Click to Get Japan trade data

Machinery and Electronics

Exports of industrial machinery and consumer electronics grew by 4%, valued at ¥7.5 trillion (approx. $51 billion), supported by Japan's high-tech manufacturing sector.

Optical and Medical Instruments

Exports of optical and medical devices such as microscopes and surgical instruments rose by 6% to ¥4.2 trillion (approx. $28.3 billion), fueled by demand from the tech and healthcare industries.

Key Import Products of Japan in 2024

Energy Products (Crude Oil, LNG, Coal)

Japan imported ¥12 trillion (approx. $81 billion) worth of energy products, including crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and coal, making it a key player in global energy markets.

Electronics and Electrical Equipment

Semiconductors, smartphones, and consumer electronics are among Japan's largest imports. In 2024, Japan imported ¥9.6 trillion (approx. $65 billion) in electronics, primarily from China and South Korea.

>>>>Click here for Japan trade data

Machinery

Imports of industrial machinery and machine tools were valued at ¥4.9 trillion (approx. $33 billion). These imports support Japan’s manufacturing sector, with major suppliers from Europe and the U.S..

Nonferrous Metals

Japan also imports raw materials, particularly nonferrous metals like aluminum and copper, worth ¥3.1 trillion (approx. $21 billion) in 2024.

Japan's Trade with Key Regions

United States: The U.S. remained Japan's largest trading partner, with exports to the U.S. increasing by 5% in 2024, driven by vehicles and machinery. Imports from the U.S. grew as well, especially in electronic components and agricultural products.

China: Japan's exports to China remained steady, with semiconductors and machinery accounting for much of the trade. Imports from China also saw modest growth, particularly in electronics and raw materials.     >>>>Contact us to Access Japan Trade Data

European Union: Trade with the EU showed positive growth, with Japan's exports of machinery and vehicles rising. Imports from the EU remained stable, focused on industrial products and food.

Southeast Asia: Japan's exports to Southeast Asia grew by 6%, driven by machinery and semiconductor equipment. Imports also rose, with electronics and raw materials being the dominant categories.

Middle East: Japan continued to rely on energy imports from the Middle East, with oil and gas accounting for the bulk of trade in the region.

Tendata provides data interfaces for over 10 billion trade records in 228+ countries/regions, over 500 million in - depth enterprise data and over 850 million enterprise contact details. The labeled and clear data helps enterprises build a digital - intelligent middle - office.

1. Detailed descriptions of goods are provided.

2. Each transaction record includes company information for both the buyer and the seller, including company names and addresses.

3. Information about the notifier is provided, which is the party responsible for customs clearance and bill of lading procedures when the goods arrive at the port. This includes company names and addresses.

4. The weight, quantity, and packaging information, including container numbers, for the traded goods are displayed.

5. Country of origin and detailed port information, including ports of shipment, discharge, and shipping companies, are provided.

>>>Click to Get Free Access to Customs Data from 80+ Countries<<<