Japan

Plant-based dairy is set to see a decline in retail volume terms in 2023, largely due to the decline in soy drinks, which accounts for nearly 85% of overall sales in retail value terms in plant-based dairy. Over the review period, soy drinks saw…

In 2021, Asia Pacific ranked first globally in terms of production output of pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, with a turnover of USD857 billion. Over 2021-2030, the region is expected to record the fastest production growth globally,…

Within pet products in Japan, hygiene-related items such as cat litter and toilet sheets continue to drive sales growth, although the impact from inflation is also driving up price increases and the category’s value. In Japan, dogs tend to be kept…

Further price increases across pet care in Japan are evident, helping to drive up retail value sales in 2024. On the other hand, overall demand for some pet care products continues to decline, in line with an overall fall in the pet population.…

Economic freedom in Japan continues to benefit the private sector, as does limited corruption, but fiscal health remains weak. Unemployment is low, but the economy faces external forces that are weakening its performance. Ageing and depopulation…

Personal luxury retail value sales rose by 7% in 2023 to total JPY3.4 trillion, supporting growth recorded by leading brand providers such as Louis Vuitton Japan KK. In 2023, sales were boosted by investment in luxury goods such as designer apparel…

The volume growth of personal care appliances in 2023 is expected to be negligible. This is an important category within consumer appliances, as it is seen as part of wellness. Personal care has always been, and will remain, an important trend, not…

In 2023, there was a symbolic pivot in how Japan faced COVID-19. It was in May that the government announced that it would reclassify COVID-19 from a Class 2 infectious disease to a Class 5 infectious disease. Class 2 meant it was a crucial disease…

Overall, sales of paediatric consumer health are in decline in current value terms in Japan in 2023. Nonetheless, the performances vary by product category with some benefiting from a post-pandemic recovery while others are facing headwinds. For…

In 2022, heightened environmental consciousness among the Japanese, coupled with the government’s goal of reducing disposable plastic waste by 25% over the next 10 years, drove various industries to switch towards sustainable packaging solutions.…

Owning fish as pets has been popular for many years in Japan, but as with trends seen in dogs, the popularity is shifting to smaller breeds. Large-sized fish such as carp, usually kept in ponds in the garden, are falling out of favour, with fewer…

Retail volume sales of other hot drinks are predicted to continue to decline in 2023. Sales recorded strong increases in 2020 and 2021, triggered by the prolonged time spent at home in response to the pandemic. During home seclusion, other hot drinks…