Japan's exports rose for a fourth consecutive month in January led by auto shipments to the U.S., data showed on Wednesday, though economists said President Donald Trump's threat of hefty tariffs on car imports could hurt future shipments.

Japan has raised the issue of auto tariffs with the US after President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 25% levy on car imports, a move that would likely deliver a big blow to Japan’s economy.

Japan recorded a trade deficit of 2.76 trillion yen ($18 billion) in January, the Finance Ministry reported Wednesday, as worries continue to grow about looming tariffs from the administration of U.S.

Japan's exports rose for a fourth consecutive month, data showed on Wednesday, signalling that strong global demand is underpinning the country's economic recovery amid growing concerns over U.S. tariff policies.