Japan Capacity Utilization Rate

Country: Japan, JPY
Importance: Low
Sector: Business
Last release
Actual
N/D
Forecast
-1.1%
Previous
0.5%
Next release
Actual
Coming in 11 days
Forecast
—
Previous
—
Date (GMT)
Reference
Actual
Forecast
Aug 2026
N/D
-1.1%
Jul 2026
1.8%
Jun 2026
-0.9%
May 2026
1.3%
Apr 2026
-3.5%
Mar 2026
-0.4%
Feb 2026
-0.7%
Jan 2026
0.8%
Dec 2025
1.3%
—
Nov 2025
-5.3%
—
Oct 2025
-0.4%
Sep 2025
-0.9%
Aug 2025
0.6%
Jul 2025
-0.3%
Jun 2025
-0.9%
May 2025
-3.5%
Apr 2025
-0.3%
Mar 2025
0.0%
Feb 2025
0.0%
Jan 2025
-0.3%

Capacity Utilization shows the percentage of the production capacity currently used. This is an indicator of growth of production and demand for manufactured goods: if the used capacity is less than 80%, production is considered reduced.

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Frequently asked questions about the Economic Calendar

What does this economic indicator show?

This indicator reflects key macroeconomic trends in Japan and belongs to the Business sector. Its market importance is rated as low. The release provides market participants with objective information about the state of the economy. Depending on how far the actual value deviates from analysts' consensus forecasts, the report may affect the national currency and related financial instruments.

When were the latest data released?

The latest official statistics were released on 15 Oct 2026. After publication, market participants compare the actual figures with forecasts and historical values. This analysis helps assess the current economic cycle and shape expectations about future monetary policy decisions, which can directly affect asset prices.

When is the next report due?

The next release is scheduled for 16 Nov 2026. Market volatility often increases around important macroeconomic releases. Traders and investors can mark the date in their calendars in advance to adjust risk management strategies, review open positions, or prepare pending orders before the official release.

What do "Actual", "Forecast", and "Previous" mean?

"Previous" is the result from the preceding reporting period. "Forecast" is the consensus estimate before publication. "Actual" is the officially confirmed released value. Market reactions are largely driven by the difference between the forecast and the actual result. A significant positive or negative surprise relative to expectations can become a major driver of short-term price movements.

Why is this indicator important for traders?

The indicator has an importance level of low, which reflects its potential impact on liquidity and volatility. High-importance events can contribute to sustained medium-term trends, while lower-importance indicators more often cause localized fluctuations. Understanding the significance of a release helps traders prioritize events when planning their trading activity.

How does this indicator affect the forex market?

The impact is driven by changes in fundamental expectations. If actual data in Japan significantly exceed forecasts or fall well below them, the market may reassess the outlook for the national currency. This can lead to changes in capital flows and market prices. The degree of impact also depends on overall market conditions and other events occurring at the same time.

Should I open trades before the release?

Trading immediately before important data releases involves increased risk. Spreads may widen sharply, slippage can occur, and volatility can become unpredictable when the report is published. Many professional market participants prefer to close speculative positions or reduce exposure before a release, resuming activity only after a clearer price direction emerges.

How can I use this indicator in trading?

Macroeconomic data should be treated as part of a broader analysis rather than as an isolated signal. An effective approach combines assessment of the fundamental environment with technical analysis and risk management. The indicator can help confirm or challenge a trend hypothesis, but trade entries should be based on multiple factors and clearly defined risk management rules.

Why does the market sometimes not react to a release?

A limited market reaction often means that the data matched expectations and had already been priced in — an effect sometimes described as "buy the rumor, sell the fact." The impact may also be overshadowed by more important simultaneous events or broader market sentiment. In such cases, even significant indicators may be released without causing substantial price movements.

How should I interpret a deviation from the forecast?

The key factor is often the size of the surprise rather than the absolute value. The larger the gap between the actual result and the forecast, the stronger the potential market reaction. A positive surprise typically supports the currency, while a negative one can weaken it. However, context matters: the market may disregard a deviation if it is viewed as temporary or insignificant for long-term central bank policy.

Can historical releases be used for analysis?

Historical data are useful for identifying cyclical patterns and assessing the persistence of trends. The latest release on 15 Oct 2026 provides a reference point. Comparing current readings with several previous periods can help distinguish short-term noise from structural changes in the economy and improve the quality of economic analysis.

Which markets can react to this indicator?

In addition to the national currency, the indicator may affect government bonds and stock indices in Japan, as well as related commodities. The degree of impact depends on the type of data released, overall market conditions, and the sensitivity of specific assets to macroeconomic factors.

How can I track the next release?

Use 16 Nov 2026 as the key date for the next publication. You can add the event to your personal calendar and set a reminder. Preparation may include reviewing consensus forecasts, identifying support and resistance levels, and planning scenarios for different release outcomes, helping reduce emotional decision-making during periods of high volatility.