Keizai (経済):** Economy

 

1. Today's Japanese words

Here's some basic Japanese vocabulary related to the economy with romaji:

* **Keizai (経済):** Economy

* **Kigyou (企業):** Company, business

* **Sangyou (産業):** Industry

* **Tsūka (通貨):** Currency

* **Bōeki (貿易):** Trade

* **Tōshi (投資):** Investment

* **Kabushiki (株式):** Stock

* **Kachiku (家畜):** Livestock (related to agriculture and economy)

* **Nōgyō (農業):** Agriculture

* **Keieisha (経営者):** Business manager

* **Keiki (景気):** Economic conditions

* **Keikikaifuku (景気回復):** Economic recovery

* **Fukyō (不況):** Recession

* **Infurēshon (インフレーション):** Inflation (opposite of deflation)

* **Gensai (減税):** Tax cut

* **Liritsu (利率):** Interest rate

* **Chingin(賃金):** Wages

2. Today's topic

The Japanese economy is the world's fourth largest by nominal GDP, boasting a highly developed and diversified manufacturing and service sector. They are a major producer of motor vehicles, steel, and high-tech goods. However, Japan has faced challenges in recent decades, including slow growth and deflation.

Japan's economy is a complex mix of strengths and weaknesses. Here's a closer look:

* **Strengths:**

   * **Leading manufacturer:** Japan remains a global leader in manufacturing, particularly in areas like automobiles, electronics, and robotics.

* **Weaknesses:**

   * **Slow growth:** Japan has struggled with stagnant economic growth for several decades, a period known as the "lost decades."

   * **Deflation:** Japan has also faced deflation, a persistent decrease in prices, which can discourage spending and investment.

   * **Aging population:** Japan has a rapidly aging population, which can put a strain on social security and healthcare systems.

3- Today’s news

Japan’s economy avoids recession by growing in last year’s final quarter, according to revised data

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15195672

The results also highlight the sluggishness of private consumption, reflecting a decline in purchasing power. Private consumption is likely to remain weak

North Korea to stay in Pyongyang, says Japan's football association

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/world-cup-qualifier-against-north-korea-stay-pyongyang-says-japans-football-association-4186821

The move came after the JFA had asked Asian officials to shift the game away from Pyongyang over a lack of operational transparency and a scarcity of flights, among other issues.