Japanese Cutting-Edge
Solutions for Metalworking
Japanese Cutting-Edge
Solutions for Metalworking
Statistic
April 10, 2026
The Japan Machine Tool Builders’ Association (JMTBA) announced preliminary machine tool order figures for March 2026. Total orders rose 31.9% MoM and increased YoY for the ninth consecutive month, reaching JPY 193.5 billion — surpassing the previous all-time high of JPY 182.9 billion set in March 2018 and exceeding JPY 190 billion for the first time on record. Orders also increased MoM for the second consecutive month.
Domestic orders totaled JPY 50.5 billion, up 35.9% MoM and up 2.5% YoY. Orders increased MoM for the second consecutive month and YoY for the third consecutive month, exceeding JPY 50 billion for the first time in 42 months. The strong result is likely attributable to the fiscal year-end effect, as March marks the close of the financial year for most Japanese companies — a seasonal pattern consistent with previous years.
Foreign orders totaled JPY 143.0 billion, up 30.5% MoM and up 40.4% YoY. Orders increased MoM for the first time in three months and YoY for the 18th consecutive month. The result exceeded the previous all-time high of JPY 118.7 billion set in December last year by more than JPY 24 billion, marking the first time foreign demand has exceeded JPY 140 billion. Orders have now topped JPY 100 billion for six consecutive months, with the four most recent months ranking first through fourth on the all-time list — indicating an unprecedented level of capital investment.
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated since late February, raising concerns also in the machine tool industry around the procurement of petroleum-derived products, among other issues. Whether this situation will affect order trends remains to be seen, and developments will be closely watched.
Detailed regional and industry breakdowns will be provided when the final figures for March are released.
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