Wedoany.com Report-May 1, Japan’s pork consumption is expected to remain stable in 2025, with no significant changes projected from 2024 levels, according to a forecast by FAS/Tokyo, part of the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service. Pork continues to be a key component of daily meals, valued for its affordability amid ongoing inflation pressures, as outlined in a recent market report from the Tokyo post.

Data from Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications indicates that per capita retail pork sales, excluding preserved products, reached 7.6 kilograms in both 2023 and 2024. Despite a 2% price increase in 2024, consumers maintained their consumption levels by choosing more cost-effective cuts, ensuring steady demand.

The hotel, restaurant, and institutional sector has also shown strong demand for pork. In 2024, sales at Chinese restaurants, which often feature pork-heavy dishes, rose by 11%, with a 6% increase in customer visits. This growth surpassed the sector’s average increase of 4%, reflecting pork’s popularity in dining establishments.

The consistent consumption patterns highlight pork’s role as a versatile and budget-friendly protein in Japanese households and food service industries. As inflation influences purchasing decisions, consumers and businesses alike continue to prioritize pork for its balance of cost and culinary flexibility.

The FAS/Tokyo report underscores that pork’s affordability has helped maintain its prominence in the market, even as economic pressures encourage cost-conscious choices. The preference for cheaper cuts has allowed households to sustain their pork intake without significant reductions in volume.

In the restaurant sector, the rise in sales at Chinese eateries demonstrates pork’s appeal in diverse culinary applications, contributing to the sector’s robust performance. The increase in customer traffic further supports the sustained demand for pork-based dishes.

Looking ahead, the steady outlook for 2025 suggests that pork will remain a cornerstone of Japan’s food culture, supported by its accessibility and widespread use across both home cooking and professional kitchens. The market’s resilience reflects effective consumer adaptations to economic conditions, ensuring pork’s continued relevance in Japan’s dietary habits.