Japan Downgrades Economic Assessment

For the first time in six months, Japan has downgraded its economic assessment, citing effects of the earthquake and tsunami on a variety of elements within its economy.

Reuters reported that wholesale prices rose more quickly in Japan than they had in the last two years, as company profit margins hung in the balance. A short supply of electricity and lingering fears over radiation leaks contributed to pressure on companies that are already struggling to find enough parts to keep production lines going; profit margins may take a hit as they will likely be reluctant to pass along higher costs to customers.

Kaoru Yosano, Japan's economics minister, said in the report, "The biggest risks, or uncertain factors for the economy, are when power supplies will recover, whether the nuclear situation will keep from worsening." He added, "It will cause various indirect damage, such as dampening consumer sentiment, but the economy will pick up toward the end of this year."