Why Is the Japanese Yen So Weak — and Will Authorities Intervene?

The yen’s weakness has become a growing concern for Japan’s policymakers, given its impact on import prices and household costs.

That pressure intensified in late March, when the currency slid past 160 yen per dollar for the first time since July 2024 — a level that has previously triggered government intervention. Officials have since stepped up warnings, with Vice Finance Minister for International Affairs Atsushi Mimura signaling readiness to take “decisive action” against speculative moves.