TOKYO (Reuters – Japan’s September export growth rate was the lowest in seven months. Core consumer prices rose by 0.1% in September. The result is a reflection of the COVID-19 crisis.

This mixed set of data is likely to highlight the pressures Japan’s export-dependent economy faces due to a rise in raw material prices, coronavirus-linked production and disruptions to supply chains. These factors are clouding Japan’s overseas demand outlook.

According to Reuters analysts, exports increased 11.0% in September compared with a year ago. However, this would be the slowest year-on-year growth rate since February.

Shinkin Central Bank Research Institute’s economists said that “export growth is slowing” due to the reduction in automotive production, which stems from supply limitations.

The poll revealed that September imports increased by 34.4% compared to a year ago, due to higher energy and raw materials costs.

According to the poll, Japan’s core consumer price indexes likely increased 0.1% in September due to higher fuel and energy costs. This is their first increase since March 2020 when the country was still in the early stages coronavirus pandemic.

Junpei Fujita (NYSE: Research and Consulting) said that prices will continue to rise compared with the past year due to rising energy prices and tobacco taxes. However, cellphone fees could be cut.

Trade data will be released by the government at 8:50 am on Oct. 20, 2350GMT (Oct. 19). 8:50 a.m. is the time for consumer price data (23330GMT) on October 22.