TOKYO, Sept 19 (Reuters) - Japan's 10-year government

bond yield rose in early trading on Friday, as investors awaited

signals from the Bank of Japan about the timing of the next

interest rate hike.

The 10-year JGB yield rose 1 basis point to

1.605%.

The BOJ, which is expected to conclude its two-day policy

meeting later in the day, is widely anticipated to maintain its

current interest rates. Policymakers are seeking more clarity on

whether the economy can withstand President Donald Trump's

tariffs and growing signs of weakness in the U.S. economy.

Ten-year JGB futures fell 0.13 yen to 136.43.

Bonds with other tenors have not been traded as of 0005 GMT.