Exports will continue to drive Japanese economic growth

The current account surplus was 0.5% lower in December at 1.78 trillion yen (�7.3bn), marking its first fall in six months, government data shows.

The surplus fell as Japanese firms paid higher dividends overseas.

However, the trade surplus increased by 15.2% in December, as exports hit 6.6 trillion yen.

Analysts said the latest data would have little impact on interest rate decisions.

However, they also said the strong export performance indicated that Japanese firms would continue to fuel economic growth.

The Bank of Japan kept rates on hold to the surprise of many earlier this year, but is due to meet again next week.