Japan’s September exports rise 16.7%, helped by chip demand

By Makiko Yamazaki TOKYO, Oct 21 (Reuters) Japan s exports in September rose 16.7% from a year earlier, government data showed on Wednesday, as strong demand for semiconductors and AI-related ​products offset weakness in other sectors. The increase marked the ‌13th consecutive month of gains, following a 19.3% rise in August and falling short of a median market forecast for a 20.1% increase, Ministry of Finance data showed. Solid global investment in artificial intelligence continued to support exports ‌of ​semiconductors and related equipment. Exports have also ⁠been supported by corporate efforts ⁠to pass on higher costs through prices. By destination, exports to the United States rose 22.9% in September from a year earlier, while shipments to China increased 8.6%. Imports in September rose ​18.9% from a year earlier, compared with economists median forecast for a 19.6% expansion. Growth in imports slowed from 28% in ⁠August due to lower crude oil ⁠arrivals after tankers rerouted