February 2025 Japan Machine Tool Orders: Up 1.8% to JPY 118.2 billion

March 14, 2025

The Japan Machine Tool Builders’ Association (JMTBA) has released preliminary figures for Japan’s machine tool orders in February 2025. Total orders reached JPY 118.2 billion, up 1.8% from the previous month. This was the first month-on-month (MoM) increase in two months, while year-on-year (YoY) orders increased for the fifth consecutive month. However, total orders remained below JPY 120 billion for the second consecutive month.

Domestic demand shows modest growth

Domestic orders totaled JPY 33.7 billion, up 5.6% MoM. While this was the first increase in two months, domestic demand continues to hover within the range of JPY 30-35 billion (excluding quarter-end months), indicating a stagnant domestic market. On a positive note, YoY domestic orders have increased for four consecutive months, raising expectations for further progress.

Foreign demand remains steady

Foreign orders came in at JPY 84.4 billion, up a slight 0.3% MoM, the first increase in two months. YoY foreign orders have now increased for five consecutive months, and February marks the second consecutive month in the JPY 84 billion range, while the level has remained above JPY 80 billion for five consecutive months.

Further details will be provided in the final confirmed report.