Japan's industrial production rose a seasonally adjusted 1.3 percent in April from the previous month for the second straight month of growth, partly due to brisk exports of equipment used for flat-panel televisions, the government said Monday.

The index of output at factories and mines stood at 96.0 against the base of 100 for 2005, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said in a preliminary report. The index of industrial shipments gained 1.6 percent to 98.2 and that of industrial inventories was up 0.3 percent to 94.3. On production, the ministry left its basic assessment unchanged, saying "Industrial production continues to show an upward movement."

By sector, output by general machinery makers climbed 12.0 percent, while transport equipment makers, including automakers, grew 0.3 percent. Looking ahead, the ministry is projecting industrial production will rise 0.4 percent in May and grow 0.3 percent in June.


Higher output among makers of general machinery and fabricated metals led the advance, according to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's preliminary report. Parts used in flat-panel televisions also contributed to gains. The country's biggest automakers released data Friday showing major sales and production gains.

Toyota Motor Corp., the world's biggest car manufacturer, said Friday it made 61.5 percent more cars, trucks and buses in April from a year earlier, despite massive global recalls that have hurt its reputation for quality.

In Japan, "eco-points" awarded to buyers of energy-efficient household appliances and tax breaks for eco-friendly cars helped bolster production. "With both the points and the tax breaks scheduled for termination, it seems unlikely that manufacturers will step up production," said Goldman Sachs economist Chiwoong Lee in a report. (Breitbart)