Summary: Japan’s core inflation rose to 3.5% in April, driven by surging rice prices, marking the highest level since January 2023. While the Bank of Japan considers pausing rate hikes due to U.S. tariffs, economists anticipate easing inflation in the coming months due to lower oil prices and a strengthening yen. Despite this, persistent inflation may prompt another interest rate hike in October.

Link: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/23/japans-core-inflation-climbs-to-3point5percent-highest-in-more-than-2-years-.html