Economic assessment upgraded

NHK -- Jan 20

Japanese government officials have upgraded their monthly economic assessment for the first time in seven months.

The report for January says the economy is "recovering at a moderate pace."

The last time the officials used the term "recovering" was four years ago when the country saw a rise in spending before a consumption tax hike.

Officials have raised their evaluation of private consumption. They say it's "picking up" as sales of home appliances and mobile phones are strong.

The report also upgrades the employment situation, saying it's "improving steadily."

The officials have kept their assessment on business investment and industrial production unchanged, stating they are "increasing moderately."

The officials forecast that Japan's economy will continue to recover at a moderate pace due to higher incomes and an improving employment situation.