Japan prime minister Shinzo Abe comments in a public debate

  • Deflation in Japan has lasted for two decades
  • That is why monetary easing was implemented
  • Doesn't think at all it is alright to continue forever
  • But policy judgments is up to BOJ governor Kuroda
  • Says that if he comments on how stimulus will end, markets will react to it
  • Wage growth and consumer spending is picking up gradually
  • Economy is in very good shape
  • Hopes to achieve a path for exit during his term in office

Abe made those comments in a public debate in Tokyo. Do be reminded that Abe will be contesting in a leadership vote next week in his ruling LDP party. But he is very much expected to win the contest easily and remain at the helm over the next three years.

He also made some comments earlier in the day here. They bear no details in terms of monetary policies but there's been continuous hints that Japanese officials have become less dovish on their outlook towards normalising monetary policy and that is something to take note of.