Japan Inflation Rate — 2026 CPI Data, Trend & Outlook
Japan's inflation rate was 1.50% in May 2026, up from 1.40% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 3.50%.
Japan's inflation rate stands at 1.50% as of May 2026. The inflation rate currently sits at 1.50% (up from 1.40% in the prior month). Across the tracked window it has ranged between -1.20% and 4.30%, and is 2.00% lower than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 193 economies tracked on this platform, Japan ranks #143 on inflation rate by latest value. It rose from 1.40% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 3.50%.
What's driving it
Inflation is shaped by energy and food prices, the exchange rate, wage growth and the stance of monetary policy; central banks lift interest rates to cool it and ease when it falls back toward target.
Recent readings
| Period | Inflation rate |
|---|---|
| May 2026 | 1.50% |
| Apr 2026 | 1.40% |
| Mar 2026 | 1.50% |
| Feb 2026 | 1.30% |
| Jan 2026 | 1.50% |
| Dec 2025 | 2.10% |
| Nov 2025 | 2.90% |
| Oct 2025 | 3.00% |
Data: Source: OECD (terms permit extract/distribute, incl. commercial, with citation). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Inflation Rate in Japan Right Now (2026)?
Japan's inflation rate was 1.50% in May 2026, up from 1.40% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 3.50%.
Is the inflation rate rising or falling in Japan?
It rose in the latest reading — 1.50% in May 2026 versus 1.40% a month earlier. Year on year it is lower.
What is inflation rate?
It measures how fast consumer prices are rising, measured by the consumer price index (CPI).