1.   And many Japanese manufacturers are importing cheaper parts from abroad for finished products in Japan.

2.   In addition, many Japanese manufacturers are importing products back to Japan.

3.   To keep up with demand, manufacturers imported more raw materials as they boosted production, economists said.

4.   But some economists note that Thai manufacturers import raw materials, which would become more expensive with a weaker currency.

5.   The newspaper said many small manufacturers import the parts and sell the watches without paying local taxes.

6.   In addition, Japanese manufacturers are importing their own brands from both newly-industrialised and developing economies in Southeast Asia.

7.   American and European tyre manufacturers imported rubber in only limited quantities.