After a disappointing start, Asia’s main equity markets were broadly higher on Monday, as Japan traders swung around to the view that trade data there were better than expected.

    The Nikkei Stock Average was up 0.3% in midmorning trade, after an early decline of 0.1%. Across the region, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 was down 0.6% and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index reversed early losses to trade up 0.3%, reopening after Friday’s closure due to Typhoon Haima. Meanwhile, Korea’s Kospi was up 0.4%. 

    Data released Monday by Japan’s Ministry of Finance showed exports fell 6.9% in September from a year earlier, the 12th straight month of declines, as a stronger yen continued to hurt manufacturers. However, the drop wasn't as sharp as had been feared.

    Moreover, Japan’s manufacturing purchasing managers index rose to 51.7 in October from September’s 50.4. The indicator tracks the order expectations of factory managers. A reading above the 50 indicates expansion, and Japan’s October PMI showed it improving at the fastest rate in nine months.

    Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng received a boost from the Shanghai Composite Index, which jumped 1.3% to 3130.70 points. Gains were capped by China’s central bank fixing the yuan 0.2% weaker against the U.S. dollar on Monday.

    The yuan has been trading at six-year lows against the dollar in recent sessions, and some investors have been concerned about the possibility of capital flight.