Japan’s machine tool orders hit 2025 peak in December at JPY 158.2 billion

The Japan Machine Tool Builders’ Association (JMTBA) announced preliminary machine tool order figures for December 2025. Total orders reached JPY 158.2 billion, up 15.5% month-on-month (MoM) and 10.6% year-on-year (YoY). MoM orders increased for the first time in two months, while YoY orders rose for the sixth consecutive month. This marked the first time in nine months that orders exceeded JPY 150 billion and represented the highest level for 2025. Despite heightened international tensions and concerns about their impact on the global economy, strong investment appetite for machine tool capital equipment remains evident. 

Domestic demand shows mixed signals 

Domestic orders totaled JPY 39.4 billion, up 23.4% MoM but down 1.1% YoY. MoM orders increased for the first time in three months, also surpassing JPY 39 billion for the first time in three months. However, YoY orders declined for the second consecutive month. Overall, domestic demand remains in a holding pattern, fluctuating without clear direction. 

Overseas demand reaches record high 

Foreign orders totaled JPY 118.7 billion, up 13.1% MoM and 15.1% YoY. MoM orders increased for the first time in two months, while YoY orders marked 15 consecutive months of growth. This marked the first time overseas demand exceeded JPY 110 billion. Multiple large orders appear to have concentrated near year-end. The figure surpassed the previous record of JPY 107.8 billion set in October 2025 by approximately JPY 11 billion, demonstrating remarkable momentum in overseas demand growth. 

Regional and industry breakdowns will be provided in the final report.