Information Releases

Apr. 2020

Economic Trends Research, April 2020

Rapid deterioration continues in domestic economy
— Many market functions restricted due to State of Emergency declaration. SMEs experienced the biggest drop on record —

Overview of April 2020: Contraction

The economic diffusion index (DI) in April 2020 was 25.8, down 6.7 points from the previous month, worsening for the seventh consecutive month, and the biggest drop on record, continued from last month. While the economy contracts, corporate activities are restricted, and rapid deterioration continued in the domestic economy.

Future outlook: Moderate recession continues

With strong uncertainty, such as about the COVID-19 situation returning to normal, the recession is expected to continue.

Primary points of survey results(summary)

1. 1 By industry : Worsening in all ten industries. Lowest-ever economic DI was recorded in 14 business categories.
2. 2 By size : Decline in all sizes for the seventh consecutive month. SMEs recorded their biggest-ever drop.
3. 3 By region : Nationwide worsening in 47 prefectures in all ten regions for the second consecutive month. Stagnation in local economic activities.

Economic Trends Research, February 2020