October 10, 2008

Release of Report on Economic Trends in the ICT Industry
(Q2 of 2008)

MIC is releasing its Report on Economic Trends in the ICT Industry for the second quarter (April to June) of 2008.

[Key trends]
- Due to downturn in the US economy, business confidence deteriorated. Production and shipment related to the ICT manufacturing decreased. Inventory set a record high.
- Overall capital investment by the ICT industry was on the rise.
- Employment grew in the ICT industry. The number of people hired increased particularly in the information and communications business category.
- Prices of ICT related commodities continue to decline.

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For further information about this press release, please fill in the inquiry form and submit it to MIC on the website
http://www.soumu.go.jp/joho_tsusin/eng/contact.html

International Policy Division,
Global ICT Strategy Bureau, MIC
TEL: +81 3 5253 5920 / FAX: +81 3 5253 5924