From Dexerto · James Busby · · 50s
Japanese beer giants raided in price-fixing probe
Japan’s top beer brands face police investigation over alleged price collusion.
In brief
Japan’s top beer brands face police investigation over alleged price collusion. Japan’s largest beer makers, including Asahi and Kirin, are under investigation by the Fair Trade Commission for suspected price-fixing in 2022 and 2025. Originally reported by Dexerto.
Japan’s beer giants under investigation
Japan’s Fair Trade Commission raided Asahi, Kirin, Suntory Spirits and reportedly Sapporo over alleged price-fixing collusion in October 2026.
Price increases under scrutiny
The investigation focuses on price hikes in October 2022 and April 2025 when all four manufacturers raised prices citing higher raw material, energy and transportation costs.
Companies respond to probe
Kirin confirmed its brewing subsidiary was searched 'on suspicion of a violation of the Antimonopoly Act' and will cooperate with the JFTC investigation, while Suntory Spirits apologized for any inconvenience.
At a glance
Japan’s largest beer makers, including Asahi and Kirin, are under investigation by the Fair Trade Commission for suspected price-fixing in 2022 and 2025.
