Key Facts
• Takeshi Niinami resigned as Suntory Holdings Chairman effective September 1, 2025.
• Niinami held a press conference, stating he is “innocent” and “did not break the law.”
• He is under investigation by Fukuoka Prefectural Police regarding supplements purchased in the U.S.
• Niinami claimed the supplements were legal and purchased on a recommendation from an acquaintance.
• The supplements were delivered to his home via an acquaintance, not carried by him personally.
• Niinami will temporarily suspend activities as Representative Director of the Japan Association of Corporate Executives.
• Decision on his resignation from the association will be left to its leadership.
• Mutsuo Iwai, Chairman of JT, will act as interim Representative Director during Niinami’s suspension.
Summary
Takeshi Niinami, former Chairman of Suntory Holdings, announced his resignation effective September 1, 2025, amid an investigation by Fukuoka Prefectural Police regarding supplements purchased in the U.S. At a press conference, Niinami declared his innocence, stating he did not break any laws. He explained that the supplements were legally purchased on a recommendation and delivered to his home via an acquaintance. While stepping down from Suntory, Niinami will temporarily suspend his role as Representative Director of the Japan Association of Corporate Executives, leaving the decision on his resignation to the association. During his suspension, Mutsuo Iwai, Chairman of JT, will serve as interim Representative Director.
