Odaily News Data released earlier today showed that Japan's core consumer inflation accelerated in January to 3.2% year-on-year, the fastest pace in 19 months. The stronger-than-expected growth reinforced expectations that the Bank of Japan may continue to raise interest rates as inflationary pressures persist. The price increase appears to be in line with the central bank's forecasts. Analysts pointed out that service sector inflation has not accelerated, rising 1.4% year-on-year in January, compared with 1.6% in December, although overall, commodity inflation has not slowed. Japan's inflation rate has been above the central bank's 2% target for nearly three years. This has prompted a shift in monetary policy. Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda previously hinted that the central bank may raise interest rates further if wage growth continues to support consumption, allowing companies to increase wages and keep prices rising. (Jinshi)