TOKYO, July 22 (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei share average

climbed for a second straight session on Wednesday as stronger

semiconductor stocks lifted sentiment before closely watched

technology sector earnings.

The benchmark Nikkei 225 advanced 1.75% to

67,388.70. The broader Topix rose 1.19% to 4,062.66.

A sharp recovery in U.S. semiconductor shares lifted global

risk appetite, with the Philadelphia semiconductor index

jumping 5.2% overnight as investors looked past Middle East

tensions and new U.S. tariffs.

Investors are awaiting results from key tech firms to see

how they are handling rising costs, while taking cues from South

Korea's tech-heavy Kospi gauge, said Nomura Securities

strategist Maki Sawada.

"If these earnings trends prove favourable, they could well

serve to dispel such concerns and act as a catalyst for a rise

in share prices," Sawada said.

"We are seeing a trend in the South Korean market where

semiconductor-related stocks are driving a significant rise in

the benchmark index. I believe this sentiment is also being

reflected in Japan."

Data released on Wednesday showed Japan's exports rose 19.3%

year-on-year in June, beating forecasts, while imports climbed

25.4%, underscoring resilient demand and supporting the outlook

for corporate earnings.

Tech-industry suppliers and chipmakers led gains on the

Nikkei, which had 135 advancers against 89 decliners.

The largest gainers in the index were Mitsui Kinzoku ( XZJCF )

, up 12.02%, followed by Taiyo Yuden ( TYOYF ), 10.39%

higher, and Kioxia Holdings ( KXHCF ), which gained 10.38%.

The biggest losers were online retailer Mercari ( MRCIF ),

down 5.54%, followed by Tokyo Disneyland operator Oriental Land ( OLCLF )

, 4.94% lower, and Recruit Holdings ( RCRRF ), which lost

4.88%.

(Reporting by Rocky Swift in Tokyo; Editing by Subhranshu Sahu)