Japan factory output rises, but slower than expected as US tariffs threat looms

Japanese factory output experienced a slower-than-expected rise of 0.5% in May, raising concerns about the country's fragile economic recovery. U.S. tariffs on automobiles are significantly impacting Japan's manufacturing sector, prompting concerns about potential reciprocal tariffs. Economists anticipate continued weakness in exports and production due to the global economic slowdown, complicating the Bank of Japan's monetary policy efforts.