TOKYO, June 30 (Xinhua) -- Japan's industrial production rose 0.5 percent in May, marking the first increase in two months, according to preliminary data released Monday by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
The seasonally adjusted index came in at 101.8 in May, with growth led by production machinery and the automotive sector, which is supported by stronger demand for car molds, excavators, and passenger vehicles, the data showed.
Out of 15 industry categories, nine showed growth, five declined, and one remained flat. The METI maintained its overall production trend assessment as "showing movements of picking up and pausing."
However, transportation machinery excluding automobiles saw a steep 16.3-percent drop due to lower-than-usual demand for aircraft parts. Output in the chemical sector fell 5.1 percent amid scheduled maintenance at production sites, while electronic components declined 3.0 percent.
The METI noted rising concern among businesses about the impact of U.S. tariff policies, with more firms reporting effects on production and shipments. ■
