Japan’s exports rose for the first time in two years in December, driven by shipments to China, government data showed, offering a glimmer of hope for policymakers counting on an export-led recovery amid a resurgence of the coronavirus. A recovery in exports may ease the risk of a double-dip recession, while the Bank of Japan is seen upgrading its growth forecast for next fiscal year at its rate review ending Thursday. The central bank is expected to stand pat on policy. Still, the pace of recovery in Japan’s shipments paled in comparison with neighbouring export hubs such as China, Taiwan and South Korea, all of ... (full story)