Einar H. Dyvik
Research expert covering Nordics and global data for society, economy, and politics
Japan - Statistics & Facts
Japan is an East Asian state consisting of numerous islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is well-known for its traditional and contemporary culture, foods, and arts, and has been a major power both regionally and globally throughout history. In recent decades, Japan's economy was the third largest in the world before it was overtaken by Germany in 2023.
Demographics
Japan has one of the largest populations in the world, however its population growth has shown a negative trend during recent years. Japan's fertility rate is well below replacement level, and the aging population means the population decline will undoubtedly continue into the coming years. More and more Japanese have been moving to the cities over the last decades; today, more than 90 percent live in urban areas and metropolises.Economy
Most of Japan鈥檚 GDP is generated in the services sector, and Japan鈥檚 unemployment rate is incredibly low, even for a developed country. Japan's innovative manufacturing sector is significant however, particularly industries such as automotives, consumer electronics, and high-tech goods. Japan鈥檚 main trade partners are China and the United States, although the growing markets in Southeast Asia have presented new opportunities for Japanese firms in recent years.
