Japan’s machine tool orders total JPY 223.2 billion in September 2026, setting a new all-time high

The Japan Machine Tool Builders’ Association (JMTBA) released preliminary machine tool order figures for September 2026. Total orders reached JPY 223.2 billion, up 12.8% MoM and 60.4% YoY. Orders increased MoM for the second consecutive month and YoY for the 15th consecutive month, substantially surpassing the previous all-time high of JPY 203.4 billion set in June this year.

Domestic orders exceed JPY 60 billion for the first time in 54 months

Domestic orders totaled JPY 63.9 billion, up 24.1% MoM and 46.5% YoY. Orders increased MoM for the first time in three months and YoY for the ninth consecutive month, exceeding JPY 60 billion for the first time in 54 months. Data center and semiconductor manufacturing equipment-related sectors — key drivers since spring — are believed to have remained strong. Orders in other sectors may also have increased as the first half of the fiscal year came to a close.

Foreign orders sustain historically high levels

Foreign orders totaled JPY 159.2 billion, up 8.8% MoM and 66.8% YoY. Orders increased MoM for the second consecutive month and YoY for the 24th consecutive month, setting a new all-time high for the second consecutive month. This marked the first time foreign orders exceeded JPY 150 billion. Orders have exceeded JPY 130 billion for seven consecutive months, remaining at historically high levels. As the data is preliminary, a regional breakdown is not yet available. However, based on recent trends, capital investment is believed to remain strong, particularly in Asia and North America.