Japan’s Fastest Export Growth in a Year Boosts Outlook

Japan reported the fastest export growth in a year and a smaller-than-expected trade deficit, aiding prospects of a sustained recovery in the world’s third-biggest economy.

Boosted by car exports to the U.S., outbound shipments rose 5.9 percent in March from a year earlier, exceeding the median estimate in a Bloomberg News survey for a 0.2 percent gain. The deficit was 82.6 billion yen ($1 billion), less than the median forecast for a 223.2 billion yen shortfall. Comparisons are distorted by the earthquake in March 2011.