Kikkoman and Nissui are increasing prices for a wide range of soy sauce and frozen food products starting Sept. 1, 2024 [4].

These price adjustments reflect the ongoing struggle of Japanese food producers to absorb rising costs of raw materials and logistics. As staple condiments and processed foods become more expensive, the move signals a continuing trend of inflation affecting daily household expenses across Japan.

Kikkoman will raise the prices of 291 items [1], including soy sauce and tsumuyu, by two% to a maximum of 22% [2]. For example, the price of 450ml Shiboritate Nama Shoyu will increase from 336 yen to 356 yen, including tax [3]. A Kikkoman spokesperson said, "We will raise the prices of 291 items by 2% to a maximum of 22%" [2].

Simultaneously, Nissui is increasing shipment prices for its frozen and processed foods intended for both home and commercial use. These increases will range from approximately two% to 11% [5]. The company said a combination of higher raw material costs, logistics expenses, packaging material costs, and energy prices are the drivers for the change [6].

A Nissui spokesperson said it has become extremely difficult to continue supplying products while maintaining current quality and prices [7].

The price changes apply to the Japanese retail and commercial markets [8]. While some reports suggest a higher number of items may be affected in later months, the primary adjustment for these 291 products begins with September deliveries [4].

“Kikkoman will raise the prices of 291 items by 2% to a maximum of 22%”

The simultaneous price hikes by Kikkoman and Nissui demonstrate that the Japanese food industry is no longer able to offset rising overhead costs through internal efficiencies. By targeting staples like soy sauce and frozen processed foods, these companies are passing the burden of energy and logistics inflation directly to the consumer, which may further dampen household spending power.