Japan’s antitrust watchdog, the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC), investigates suspected price-fixing among six major ice-cream makers, and has raided their offices. According to multiple reports, investigators search corporate headquarters linked to Akagi Nyugyo, Ezaki Glico, Lotte, Meiji, Morinaga Milk Industry, and Morinaga & Co. The companies are suspected of colluding to raise prices, potentially in the context of food inflation and coordinated changes in suggested retail pricing across the industry.
The JFTC action reflects broader concern about competition in Japan’s ice-cream market, with sources describing alleged near-simultaneous price hikes in recent years. Reporting also notes the timing ahead of Japan’s summer season, as forecasted or record high temperatures are expected to increase demand for frozen desserts.
While the raids indicate active scrutiny of potential violations of Japan’s Antimonopoly Act, the allegations have not been established in court. The companies’ involvement and the outcome of the investigation are pending.
