Japan's economic recovery slows as pandemic pain lingers

A global rebound in manufacturing activity gave exports a much-needed boost, making up for some of the weakness in domestic demand, the data showed.

TOKYO:Japan's recovery from its worst postwar recession slowed in the fourth quarter, a sign households and companies have yet to fully shake off the economic hit from the pandemic, although the pace of growth was stronger than expected.

The data underscores the challenge policymakers face in keeping the economy afloat amid emergency measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.