Japanese tertiary industry activity rose in April, indicating an increase in the total value of goods and services purchased by businesses, according to Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry data June 9.

Seasonally adjusted, the tertiary industry activity index stood at 104.8 for the month, up 1.2% from March and 0.6% from a year ago.

The service industries posting the biggest monthly gains include finance and insurance, up 3.9%, and information and communication with an increase of 3.6%. Utilities declined 2.4% while transport and postal activities fell 0.8%.