TOKYO, Jan 21 (Reuters) - Japan"s exports rose 2.0% in December from a year earlier, Ministry of Finance (MOF) data showed on Thursday, posting the first annual increase in two years and reflecting a pick-up in overseas demand despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The rise compares with economists" median estimate for a 2.4% increase in a Reuters poll. It followed a 4.2% decline in November. Imports fell 11.6%, against the median estimate for a 14.0% decrease, bringing the trade balance to a surplus of 751 billion yen ($7.25 billion). The poll called for a 942.8 billion yen surplus. To view full tables, go to the MOF website: here ($1 = 103.5400 yen) (Reporting by Tetsushi Kajimoto Editing by Chang-Ran Kim)