The IMF Executive Board has published its views on the Japanese economy following a consultation with Japanese officials on the country’s economic developments and policies, as authorised under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement. The Executive Board noted improved near-term economic prospects for the economy and a generally sound financial system. However the Board also cautioned that the growth outlook is subject to significant risks including low profitability, exposure to interest rate risk and incomplete domestic reforms.  The Executive Board also emphasised that wide-ranging structural reforms to support new monetary framework was essential for achieving self-sustaining growth.