TOKYO , Oct. 10 (UPI) -- The number of employees in Japan's manufacturing sector rose for the first time in 15 years , government officials said. The Ministry of Economy , Trade and Industry said the number of people working for manufacturers employing 10 or more in 2006 grew 2.3 percent over 2005 to 7.47 million , the Kyodo Japanese news agency reported Wednesday. The ministry said the increase was due primarily to strong performances by car makers , and non-ferrous metal and electronic manufacturers.

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