THE JAPAN NEWS
 
Over 48 percent of Japanese companies are suffering from the yen’s weakening against other major currencies, a survey by Tokyo Shoko Research Ltd. showed Wednesday.
 
In the survey, 48.4 percent of respondents said their businesses have been adversely affected by the yen’s depreciation, far larger than the 4.9 percent enjoying benefits, the private credit research firm said.
 
The survey underscored the pressure put on corporate profits by the yen’s rapid weakening, with many firms finding it difficult to pass on cost increases stemming from currency fluctuations to prices.
 
Over 85 percent of the companies that responded to the survey complained of cost increases from the weak yen, such as rises in the purchase prices of goods and fuel prices. About 80 percent said they have failed to raise prices despite the swelling costs.
 
Asked about appropriate dollar-yen exchange rates, more than 40 percent cited ¥100-104, compared with the recent levels above ¥117.