<h1>Trade surplus driven by export growth offsets rising import costs as tariffs and energy shocks shape trade dynamics.</h1> Japan swung to a February trade surplus as stronger-than-expected export growth, supported by Europe and other Asian markets and aided by currency depreciation, offset rising import costs driven by higher energy prices and geopolitical tensions; shipments to China and the US fell, with auto exports hit by US tariffs, while markets watch central bank policy and impending bilateral talks that may affect trade dynamics.