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Japan’s car-sales slump puts spotlight on consumer weakness ahead of BOJ policy shift
Japan’s auto sector drops 8.
On 11 November 2025, data showed Japan’s domestic auto sales fell 8.4% year-on-year in October, marking the sharpest drop in over a year. The decline was attributed to weaker household spending and tighter credit conditions. With the Bank of Japan exploring a rate hike in early 2026, analysts say the sales slump raises questions about the timing of policy normalisation and whether the broader economy is ready. A stronger yen also weighed on exports, adding another layer of concern ahead of Japan’s upcoming Q4 earnings season.