Erica Yokoyama

Japan's inflation accelerated for a second month in June, backing the case for central bank officials to consider raising interest rates when they gather to set policy at the end of the month.

The Japanese government cut its economic growth forecast for the current fiscal year, reflecting weaker-than-expected private consumption. The move gives some food for thought for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ahead of the ruling party's presidential election in September, and the Bank of Japan as it mulls a potential rate hike.

A key gauge of the strength of Japan's service sector rebounded in July, while a measure of factory activity showed a contraction in the latest indication of the economy's patchy performance.

A key gauge of the strength of Japan’s service sector rebounded in July, while a measure of factory activity showed a contraction in the latest indication of the economy’s patchy performance.

The number of Japanese citizens fell at the fastest clip last year since data collection began in the 1960s, adding pressure on the nation's social security system and shrinking labor market.

Japan's labor ministry proposed a record increase in the minimum wage for the fourth consecutive year, in a bid to support low-income households amid rising prices.

A diminishing population, which Japan has faced for 15 years, poses multiple challenges for the country, including labor shortage.

Higher minimum wages will likely particularly benefit low-income households, which are most affected by ongoing inflation.

(Bloomberg) -- Japan stressed the need for countries to pay closer attention to excessive movements in the currency market at the Group of 20 meeting, according to the Vice Finance Minister for International Affairs.