Inflation returns to Japan for the first time in more than a year
by Staff and agencies from on (#2EJPF)
Prices tick up helped by the rising cost of oil but a slump in household spending clouds the outlook
Japan's core consumer prices have risen for the first time in over a year thanks to a pickup in energy costs, marking a rare victory in the government's long battle against deflation.
But a slump in household spending showed by 1.2% compared with January last year showed why economic growth and inflation have lagged the more ambitious goals set out by policymakers.
Related: A better economic plan for Japan
Related: When will Britons get a pay rise?
Continue reading...