Japan Food Prices Rise at Slower Pace

Food prices in Japan increased by 7.2% year-on-year in August 2025, easing from a 7.6% gain in the previous month, which had marked the sharpest rise in five months. Costs moderated for fresh vegetables (2.1% vs 3.7% in July), cereals (22.7% vs 27.4%), meats (4.8% vs 5.2%), oils, fats, and seasonings (2.5% vs 2.9%), prepared foods (6.8% vs 7.1%), beverages (9.0% vs 9.2%), alcoholic drinks (4.1% vs 4.3%), and meals eaten out (4.4% vs 4.5%). Meanwhile, inflation quickened for fresh fruits (5.7% vs 5.6%), fish and seafood (2.7% vs 2.5%), dairy products and eggs (7.9% vs 5.3%), and cakes and candies (11.5% vs 10.8%). Among staples, rice prices increased 69.7% year-on-year, notably slowing from a 90.7% rise in July and marking the softest pace since December 2024 amid Tokyo’s continued efforts to ease pressure on staple food costs.