TOKYO, May 31 (Reuters) - Japan's factories posted a sharp fall in output in April as China's COVID-19 lockdowns and wider supply disruptions took a heavy toll on manufacturers, clouding the outlook for the trade-reliant economy.

BEIJING, May 31 (Reuters) - China's factory activity fell at a slower pace in May as COVID-19 curbs in major manufacturing hubs eased, but movement controls continued to weigh on demand and production, raising concerns about economic growth in the second quarter.

LONDON, May 27 (Reuters) - Worsening economic data may force central banks to blink and take a less aggressive rate-rise stance, money markets are betting, having steadily dialled back expectations of where U.S. and British interest rates might peak.

TOKYO, May 30 (Reuters) - Japan's economy will grow at a weaker rate than previously thought this quarter despite hopes for a strong rebound in consumption after showing resilience in the three months through March, a Reuters poll of economists showed.

SEOUL, May 30 (Reuters) - South Korean export growth is expected to have rebounded in May, but the trade balance likely remained in the red, while consumer inflation is seen rising above 5% for the first time in nearly 13 years, a Reuters poll showed on Monday.

BANGKOK, May 30 (Reuters) - Thailand's factory output in April rose at a smaller pace than expected as higher costs continued to affect production, despite the improved economic activity, the industry ministry said on Monday.