Japan’s service sector, a vital contributor to the nation’s economic growth, has exhibited signs of slowing down in October, as revealed by a survey conducted by Jibun Bank. The findings indicate that the continued deceleration of the service sector could potentially weaken the Japanese economy.
The final October Services Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for Japan plummeted to 51.6, down from September’s 53.8, primarily due to a pronounced decrease in demand. The dip in the PMI is seen as a worrisome signal, even though it still stands above the 50-point threshold, which traditionally signifies expansion in the sector.
Mr. Andrew Harker, economics director of S&P Global Market Intelligence, commented on the decline, saying, “Despite the services sector PMI index remaining above 50, indicating expansion, the substantial drop from September to October suggests a weakening trajectory within the service sector.”
The report elaborates on the situation, noting that while consumption in the service sector had started to rebound following the COVID-19 outbreak, the sector experienced its weakest levels of new orders since January. Furthermore, the service sector witnessed its first contraction in exports in 14 months.
Despite some improvements in employment within the service sector, a growing number of individuals are retiring from their jobs. This concerning trend is reflected in the business forecast index, which reached its lowest level in nine months.
Several external factors are contributing to the challenges faced by the Japanese economy, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and a deceleration of economic growth in China. These factors collectively impact the economic outlook for Japan.
In response to the economic challenges and rising inflation, the Japanese government recently approved a massive stimulus package exceeding 17 trillion yen ($113 billion) aimed at mitigating the economic repercussions of these developments. The package represents a significant commitment to supporting the Japanese economy during a time of uncertainty.