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Japan’s economy expanded faster than expected in the first quarter of 2026, driven by resilient exports and steady consumer spending, even as rising oil prices and the escalating Middle East crisis threaten future growth. The stronger-than-forecast GDP data may influence the Bank of Japan’s next interest rate decision as policymakers assess whether the economy can withstand mounting energy pressures.
According to government data released Tuesday, Japan’s real gross domestic product (GDP) grew at an annualized rate of 2.1% in the January-to-March period. The figure surpassed market expectations of 1.7% growth and followed a revised 0.8% increase in the previous quarter.
The world’s fourth-largest economy benefited from strong export demand, with net external demand contributing 0.3 percentage points to overall growth. Private consumption and capital expenditure also rose 0.3% quarter-on-quarter, reflecting healthy corporate earnings and stable wage growth.
Economists, however, warn that Japan’s economic outlook could weaken significantly in the coming months as the impact of soaring energy prices intensifies. The ongoing Iran conflict and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted global oil supplies, sending crude prices sharply higher and increasing fears of prolonged supply shortages.
Japan remains highly exposed to the energy crisis due to its heavy dependence on Middle Eastern oil imports. Rising fuel costs are expected to push inflation higher, reduce corporate profits, and slow consumer spending and business investment.
The Bank of Japan has recently signaled a more hawkish stance, with markets increasingly anticipating a possible interest rate hike in June. However, analysts believe the central bank may delay tightening if the energy shock severely damages economic activity.
Meanwhile, the Japanese government is preparing an additional budget package that includes fuel subsidies to help households and businesses cope with surging energy costs, adding further pressure to the country’s already strained fiscal position.
