Japan's Tourism Balance Surplus Falls 25.2% in April to 546.5 Billion Yen

According to Japan's Ministry of Finance, Japan's tourism balance of payments surplus for April fell 25.2% year-over-year to 546.5 billion yen, according to international balance of payments statistics released on June 8. Foreign visitors' spending in Japan declined 17.9% to 767.2 billion yen, while Japanese overseas tourism spending rose 8.2% to 220.8 billion yen.

Data from Japan National Tourism Organization showed April inbound tourists decreased 5.5% year-over-year, with significant declines from mainland China, Europe, and the Middle East. Analysts attributed the slowdown partly to disruptions in international flights due to Middle East conflicts and rising jet fuel costs leading airlines to increase fuel surcharges.