Japan’s exports grew at the fastest clip since late 2022 as the weak yen boosted their value, a positive development for the nation’s manufacturing sector.

Exports increased 13.5% from a year ago in May, marking a sixth month of gains, the Finance Ministry reported Wednesday. The gain outpaced economists’ consensus estimate of a 12.7% increase, and it was the largest since November of 2022.

Imports advanced 9.5%, in line with estimates. The trade deficit came to ¥1.22 trillion ($7.7 billion), widening from ¥466 billion in April.