Core inflation had slowed to 2.8% in September from 3.1% in August, the first time it was below 3% since August 2022.
Many analysts see the yield control policy as becoming obsolete as the central bank has made the 10-year yield target more and more flexible, sending the JGB yield closer to 1%.
However, the BOJ has brushed aside such speculation, saying that the current global cost-push inflation is not sustainable.
The latest consumer inflation data is among indicators the BOJ will eye at its two-day policy meeting ending on Dec. 19, its last scheduled review this year.
Japanese firms, too, are closely watching inflation data as the government is pressing them to raise wages to help employees deal with the higher cost of living.
Persons:
Androniki, mths BOJ, Tetsushi Kajimoto, Takahiko Wada, Sam Holmes
Organizations:
REUTERS, Bank of Japan, Thomson
Locations:
Tokyo, Japan, TOKYO