The Bank of Japan began a two-day policy meeting on Wednesday, and analysts expect it to keep interest rates unchanged.
The central bank has held the benchmark rate at around 0.5 percent for five straight meetings, citing uncertainty over the impact of US import tariffs on Japan's economy.
Some BOJ board members believe the tariffs have had a limited effect because there has not been any major drop in corporate performance or profit outlook since they were imposed.
Many policymakers reportedly want to wait for more clarity on the state of the US economy. The partial shutdown of the federal government has delayed data on the impact of tariffs.
The policymakers say they also want to confirm moves by Japanese businesses to raise wages next year.
At the previous meeting in September, two out of the nine BOJ board members advocated raising rates. They are expected to make the same call again this time around.

Quiz 1:
What action did analysts expect the Bank of Japan (BOJ) to take following its two-day policy meeting on Wednesday?
A. Lower interest rates
B. Keep interest rates unchanged
C. Raise interest rates
D. Decrease reserve requirements

Quiz 2:
Which of the following is a reason for the BOJ to keep interest rates unchanged according to the article?
A. Major drop in corporate performance due to US import tariffs
B. Clarity on the state of the US economy
C. Strong impact of US import tariffs on Japan's economy
D. Increased demand for Japanese exports

Quiz 3:
How many BOJ board members advocated raising rates at the previous meeting in September?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4

[Answer block]
Answers:
Quiz 1: B
Quiz 2: B
Quiz 3: B