Tokyo stocks opened higher Friday as exporter-linked issues got a boost as the yen's retreat against the U.S. dollar was a catalyst for buying as profit outlooks for these companies improve when the yen is weak.

As of 9:15 a.m., the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average edged up 32.57 points, or 0.19 percent, from Thursday to 16,991.34.

The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, crept up 2.08 points, or 0.15 percent, to 1,348.03.

Notable gainers in the opening minutes comprised mining, marine transportation, and oil and coal product-linked stocks.

Source : XINHUA