[Tokyo Core Inflation Rate Falls Below Bank of Japan's Target Level for the Third Consecutive Month] Jin10 Data, May 1 – Data released on Friday showed that Tokyo's core inflation rate in April was 1.5%, marking the third consecutive month below the Bank of Japan's target level. This was due to fuel subsidies offsetting the rising raw material costs caused by the Middle East conflict. In March, the rate had risen by 1.7%. Analysts predict that with surging oil prices and a weakening yen driving up import costs, CPI is likely to accelerate again in the coming months, putting pressure on the Bank of Japan to raise interest rates. Earlier this week, the Bank of Japan maintained its benchmark interest rate at 0.75% but acknowledged the need to prevent further increases in potential inflation. It also pledged to seek further rate hikes once geopolitical risks subside.