Key Facts
• Tuna demand rises during year-end holidays, but prices are increasing.
• Tokyo seafood restaurant reports a 20% rise in tuna procurement costs.
• Supermarkets reflect price hikes: 100g of tuna rose from ¥455 in July to ¥507 in November 2025.
• Malta-sourced bluefin tuna pack costs ¥1,058; Pacific bigeye tuna is ¥322 per 100g.
• Procurement costs for supermarkets increased by ¥500 per kilogram since summer.
• Experts cite ocean current changes reducing yellowfin and bigeye tuna supply.
• Frozen bluefin tuna prices normalized after last year’s surplus depletion.
• Yen depreciation raises European tuna import costs, further driving price increases.
Summary
Tuna prices are surging as demand grows during the holiday season. Tokyo restaurants and supermarkets face procurement cost increases of up to 20%, with retail prices reflecting these hikes. Experts attribute the rise to reduced supply caused by ocean current changes and the yen’s depreciation, which has increased European import costs. While frozen bluefin tuna prices stabilized after last year’s surplus, yellowfin and bigeye tuna remain expensive. Supermarkets are struggling to limit price increases, with some reporting a ¥500 per kilogram rise in procurement costs since summer. Consumers are adjusting their purchasing habits, reducing tuna consumption frequency due to higher prices.
