Japan Trade Data Due Wednesday: Imports Seen Rising 21%

Japan publishes June trade figures Wednesday, with economists forecasting imports to climb 21% from a year earlier, driven by higher energy costs and a weaker yen.

Exports are expected to rise 9.5%, extending the recovery in overseas shipments as semiconductor equipment and autos find buyers in Asia and the U.S. The trade balance is forecast to flip to a deficit of ¥50 billion from a surplus the prior month, reflecting the import bill.

The data comes as the Bank of Japan prepares for its July rate decision and the yen trades near 158 per dollar. A wider-than-expected deficit could reinforce pressure on the currency, traders said.

Ministry of Finance releases the figures at 8:50 a.m. Tokyo time.