The Bank of Japan’s latest “Tankan” survey shows that business sentiment among the country’s major manufacturers has improved for the second straight quarter.

The BOJ polled over 9,000 companies between late August and the end of September.

The closely-watched index gauging the mood among large manufacturers stands at plus 9, up 4 points from the previous survey in June.

A positive number indicates that more companies are optimistic about business conditions than those taking a negative view.

A recovery in auto production after shortages of semiconductors and other parts eased was the main factor behind the improvement.

Large non-manufacturers continue to be even more upbeat. The index tracking their sentiment rose 4 points to 27 in the sixth straight quarter of improvement.

An increase in foreign tourists and a recovery in the hotels and restaurant sectors were the major drivers.