Firm Sales Of Imported Beef At Japanese Supermarkets
JAPAN - Japanese retail food sales declined by two per cent in 2009 year-on-year (the Japan Chain Stores Association), largely due to constrained spending by budget-conscious consumers, but also because of retailer price competition. Imported beef did relatively well during the year compared to other food products, according to the association’s monthly reports in 2009.
25 February 2010
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The reduction in retail prices – between five per cent and 20 per cent below the previous year – seems to have stimulated an appetite for Australian beef among Japanese consumers, says Meat and Livestock Australia.
US beef also increased its’ presence at Japanese retail in 2009, with major supermarkets now carrying US beef regularly. However, Japanese retailers are still cautious about US beef as supply continues to be limited under the current import protocols (all US beef must be sourced from cattle under 21 months of age).
Despite some signs of Japan’s economic recovery, the downward trend continued in January 2010, with food sales falling four per cent year-on-year. Imported beef was reported as one of ‘healthy sales’ items during the month by the association.
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