Japan posts first annual trade deficit in 30 years

Japan has announced its first annual trade deficit in more than 30 years, a setback for a country known for its exports including cars and electronics. The deficit came in at 2.49 trillion yen ($32bn; £20bn) for 2011, the finance ministry said. Japan's imports rose 12% and its exports fell 2.7%, compared to the previous year. The decline in exports was attributed to the impact from the earthquake and tsunami on 11 March.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-16712816