Japan Raids Ice Cream Giants Over Price‑Fixing Accusations

Six of Japan’s most popular frozen‑dessert brands were searched by the Fair Trade Commission on Tuesday on suspicions of coordinating prices. The companies, which include Meiji, Ezaki Glico, Morinaga Milk, Lotte, Morinaga, and Akagi Nyugyo, are alleged to have set prices beyond cost increases while the country battles a blistering summer heat.

The investigation follows reports that the firms have raised ice‑cream prices by 5‑10% several times over the past few years. In a move that could affect thousands of consumers, the suspected cartel has spread its influence throughout Japan’s supermarket and convenience‑store chains.

Official statements from the affected companies claim full cooperation with the authorities. Meiji said it would “cooperate fully with the commission”. Glico reiterated its intention to “respond in good faith”, while the Hello Panda producer also pledged full cooperation.

The commission has not yet released a full statement, leaving the public to speculate on the scope and outcome of the probe. The case has prompted commentary from consumers and analysts alike, who fear higher costs could persist as temperatures climb.

Context for the investigation comes from the record high temperatures Japan recorded in 2025. The government introduced a new term, kokushobi, to describe days that reach 40 °C (104 °F) or higher, a naming that has been translated as wildly hot or severely hot. The climate crisis has added pressure to ensure fair competition in the consumer market, especially in the food sector.

Image of a stack of packaged ice cream illustrates the scale of the products involved in the allegation.