Last year's domestic shipments of so-called white goods such as air conditioners and refrigerators surpassed the previous year for the first time in two years.
This was the second highest level since 1985, when comparisons are possible with current statistics, as product prices rose due to soaring raw material costs and transportation costs.
According to the Japan Electrical Manufacturers' Association, the domestic shipment value of white goods last year was 2.5724 trillion yen, an increase of 2% from the previous year.
It was the first time in two years that the shipment value exceeded the previous year, and it was the second highest level after 1991 since 1985, for which statistics are available for comparison.
Last year, restrictions on going out in Shanghai, China had an impact on local production activities, but since then production and supply have normalized, and product prices have risen due to soaring raw material and transportation costs. is the main factor.
By product, shipments of air conditioners were 9.059 million units, down 3.3% from the previous year, but the shipment value increased by 1.7%.
Also, refrigerators and washing machines increased by 2.1% and 1.3%, respectively, compared to the previous year.
Regarding the future outlook, the Japan Electrical Manufacturers' Association said, ``Since there is always a certain level of demand for home appliances, we will be paying close attention to whether rising product prices will continue to push up shipments, or whether rising prices will lead to consumers refraining from purchasing. There is.