Japanese machine tool orders refer to the monthly data released by the Japan Machine Tool Builders’ Association (JMTBA) that shows the total value of orders placed with Japanese machine tool manufacturers. These orders are an important indicator of the health of the Japanese manufacturing sector, as machine tools are used in the production of a wide range of goods, from automobiles to electronics. Changes in machine tool orders can provide insights into trends in manufacturing activity, including demand for exports and capital investment. The data is closely watched by economists and investors as a leading indicator of economic activity in Japan.