Economic Buzz: Japan housing starts plunge 29% as property slump deepens

Japan?s housing starts fell 29.3% year-on-year in March 2026, marking the fifth straight monthly decline and the steepest drop since May 2025. The fall exceeded expectations, reflecting ongoing weakness in the property sector. Declines were seen across all segments, led by rental and owner-occupied housing, as rising construction costs and weak demand continue to pressure the market.

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