Japan’s core inflation rises in June, driven by higher energy costs. Multiple outlets report that core inflation—which excludes fresh food—moves up to 1.6% year-on-year in June from 1.4% in May. This marks a return to upward momentum after a period in which the rate had been at a lower level, with one report describing June as the first increase since March. The acceleration is attributed primarily to increases in oil prices, which feed through to import costs and consumer prices. One outlet also notes the role of the yen, indicating that weaker currency conditions add pressure by raising the local price of imported energy. The June figure matches market expectations, with one source citing forecasts from economists polled by Reuters of a 1.6% increase. Overall, the reports agree that the inflation pickup is modest, concentrated in the components affected by fuel and imported energy costs, and consistent with consensus estimates for the month.