Tokyo Inflation Accelerates, Strengthening Case for BOJ Rate Hike

10:58 - 28.08.2026


August 28, 2026, Fineko/abc.az. Tokyo’s core inflation accelerated for a third straight month in August, reinforcing expectations that the Bank of Japan (BOJ) may raise interest rates at its upcoming policy meeting. Consumer prices excluding fresh food rose 1.8% year-on-year, matching median market estimates.

The index excluding both fresh food and energy gained 2%, while overall CPI rose 1.9%. The price gains were driven mainly by surging costs in education, healthcare, recreational goods, rents, and restaurant dining. Tokyo’s figures are widely considered a leading indicator for national price trends.

Analysts note that persistent inflation, exacerbated by weakness in the yen, supports the case for the BOJ to act in September or October. BOJ Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino also signaled vigilance regarding upside risks to prices, keeping the door open for near-term tightening.