#Japan #Tokyo #Healthy Living #Soy Milk #Japan Soymilk Association

Japan's Soy Milk Production Reaches New Heights in 2025

The Japan Soymilk Association has announced that the production of soy milk in the country reached an impressive 444,552 kl in the period from January to December 2025, marking a 108.2% increase compared to the previous year. This significant growth not only sets a new record but also indicates a rising trend in the consumption and acceptance of soy milk in daily life.

When breaking down the types of soy milk produced, the unsweetened soy milk (unprocessed) segment reached 156,927 kl, demonstrating a remarkable growth rate of 114.5%. This type of soy milk is now leading the market, showing high demand among health-conscious consumers. The processed soy milk came in at 204,319 kl (106.9%), while fruit-flavored soy milk saw a production of 17,472 kl (104.1%). Additionally, flavored soy milk beverages like coffee and tea stood at 50,378 kl (100.7%). All categories experienced increases, with the 'other' category—solely for business use—showing a 114.0% jump with 15,456 kl produced. These figures reflect a broadening acceptance of soy milk in various lifestyles and settings.

The fourth quarter of 2025 also showed promising results, with production hitting 118,432 kl, an increase of 109.5% year-on-year. The unsweetened soy milk segment produced 43,666 kl (117.9%), while processed soy milk generated 53,471 kl (106.3%). Even fruit-flavored varieties recorded 4,214 kl (103.8%) while flavored beverages saw 13,130 kl (100.9%).

Historically, the soy milk market peaked in 2020, reaching 430,000 kl, but experienced a slump due to price hikes that led consumers to cut back on purchases. However, in 2024, concerted promotional efforts from the soy milk community revitalized the market. Notably, the Japan Soymilk Association organized events around Healthy Soy Latte Day on June 12 and Soy Milk Day on October 12 during a month dedicated to soy milk awareness.

These campaigns sought to educate consumers on the benefits and advantages of soy milk, particularly emphasizing the significance of protein intake and the convenient incorporation of essential soy components like soy protein and isoflavones into daily diets. This boosted consumer understanding, inspiring many to choose soy milk not just as an alternative but as a preferred beverage, driving demand higher.

Moreover, member companies have actively sought to expand the soy milk market by implementing promotions, events, and campaigns. As health trends continue to gain momentum, the demand for products like unsweetened and processed soy milk has soared. Companies have risen to the occasion, developing high-quality soy milk using domestic soybeans and creating sugar-free, low-calorie options that resonate with consumer preferences, thus contributing further to market growth.

The association aims to escalate the annual per capita consumption of soy milk to 4 liters by 2025, up from 3.4 liters in 2022, with an overall production target of 500,000 kl. To achieve these goals, continuous education and promotional activities will be conducted throughout the year, aiming to enhance public understanding and interest in soy milk.

In summary, the Japan Soymilk Association is committed to disseminating the benefits of soy milk and promoting its wider acceptance in society. Since its establishment on September 1, 1979, the association has worked to enhance cooperation among manufacturers and foster industry growth through research and promotion, ensuring the legacy and benefits of soy milk products are understood and appreciated by all.