An index measuring tertiary industry activity in Japan was down a seasonally adjusted 1.1 percent on month in January, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said on Tuesday, standing at 99.0.
The headline figure was well shy of forecasts for a contraction of 0.2 percent following the 1.4 percent increase in December.
Industries that contributed to the decline included wholesale and retail trade, scientific research, technical services and utilities.
Industries that provided support included communications, learning support and amusement services. Accommodations prices were flat.
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