Key Facts
• In the first half of 2025, the region recorded a trade deficit of 25.3 billion yen.
• Exports totaled 52.6 billion yen, down 4.4% from the previous year.
• Imports amounted to 77.8 billion yen, a 12.3% decrease year-on-year.
• This marks the ninth consecutive year where imports exceeded exports.
• Exports declined for the fourth consecutive year, while imports fell for the first time in two years.
• Reduced coal raw material prices and import volumes contributed to the decline in imports.
• Export reductions were driven by lower trade in chemical products and transport equipment.
• Exports to the U.S. saw a notable increase, with general machinery exports rising nearly 2.8 times.
Summary
The region’s trade balance for the first half of 2025 showed a deficit of 25.3 billion yen, continuing a nine-year trend of imports surpassing exports. Exports fell by 4.4% to 52.6 billion yen, while imports dropped 12.3% to 77.8 billion yen. This marked the fourth consecutive year of declining exports and the first import decrease in two years. The decline in imports was attributed to reduced coal raw material prices and volumes, while export reductions were linked to lower trade in chemical products and transport equipment. However, exports to the U.S. showed significant growth, with general machinery exports increasing nearly 2.8 times compared to the previous year.
