The Japan Chocolate Market Size is expected to grow measurable count at a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period 2022-2032. One of the main driving factors is the increasing popularity of premium and high-quality chocolate products among Japanese consumers.

Market Overview

In Japan, due to the extensive and prominent media coverage of cacao's health benefits, including its ability to lower blood pressure, prevent obesity, cancer, and arteriosclerosis, as well as reduce stress levels and the effects of allergies and rheumatism, high cacao chocolate significantly contributed to the growth of chocolate confectionery in that country. As a consequence of government measures and business efforts to boost the proportion of women in paid employment to overcome the labor shortage in the nation, female consumers are using their greater purchasing power to treat themselves to upscale chocolate products. Considering that features like authenticity are among the main ones that are likely to increase the consumption of luxury chocolates. Consumers who are looking to purchase them are more likely to be interested in greater transparency from the product. The market is dominated by multinational companies such as Meiji, Lotte, and Morinaga, which collectively account for a large share of the market. However, many smaller domestic and foreign brands are gaining popularity among consumers.

Report Coverage

This research report categorizes the market for Japan Chocolate Market based on various segments and regions and forecasts revenue growth and analyzes trends in each submarket. The report analyses the key growth drivers, opportunities, and challenges influencing the Japan Chocolate Market. Recent market developments and competitive strategies such as expansion, product launch, and development, partnership, merger, and acquisition have been included to draw the competitive landscape in the market. The report strategically identifies and profiles the key market players and analyses their core competencies in each sub-segments of the Japan Chocolate Market.

Driving Factors

The increasing health consciousness among consumers and the rising awareness about the disadvantages of consuming artificial ingredients fuel the sales of organic and sugar-free chocolate in the Japanese market. Today's ingredient-conscious consumers are a major force behind the free-from-goods sector, which has seen an increase in the sales of vegan chocolates, sugar-free candies, and gluten-free brands, which is driving the market share. Furthermore, the increasing availability of chocolate products through e-commerce and online channels is also driving the growth of the market in Japan. Online sales have become an increasingly important channel for chocolate companies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when many consumers have shifted towards online shopping.

Restraining Factors

One of the main restraining factors is the aging population in Japan. As the population continues to age, there is a decreasing number of younger consumers who are entering the market. This has resulted in a decline in overall chocolate consumption and a shift in consumer preferences towards healthier and functional products. Moreover, the increasing competition from other confectionery products, such as biscuits, cakes, and candies. These products offer a variety of flavors and textures, and they are often marketed as healthier and more convenient options compared to chocolate. The high cost of raw materials and transportation is also a restraining factor for the chocolate market in Japan.

COVID 19 Impacts

The COVID-19 pandemic has had both positive and negative impacts on the chocolate market in Japan. Lockdowns and other social isolation strategies have forced many people to stay at home, which resulted in higher demand for chocolate and other confectionery items. In these trying times, consumers are looking for comfort and safety, and chocolate remains a favorite delicacy. On the other hand, the pandemic has also caused some challenges for the chocolate market in Japan. One of the main challenges has been disruptions in the supply chain, which have resulted in higher costs for raw materials and transportation. As a result, some companies have had to raise their prices, which may have affected consumer demand. In addition, with the closure of many retail stores and the cancellation of events and exhibitions, companies have had to shift their marketing strategies to focus more on online channels. This has required them to invest more in e-commerce platforms and digital marketing, which has added additional costs to their business. 

Market Segment

In 2022, the milk chocolate segment holds the largest market share growth during the forecast period

Based on type, Japan chocolate market is segmented into milk chocolate, white chocolate, and dark chocolate. Among these, the milk chocolate is influencing a higher growth rate over the forecast period. Milk chocolate has been the most popular type of chocolate among Japanese consumers for many years, and it continues to be the dominant segment in terms of sales. Milk chocolate is often seen as a comforting and indulgent treat, and it is widely available in various forms, including bars, candies, and snacks.

In recent years, dark chocolate has been increasing in popularity in Japan, especially among consumers who are concerned about their health and seek chocolate that is high in cocoa content and low in sugar. Dark chocolate comes in a huge variety of tastes and variations and is frequently marketed as a more expensive and healthier alternative.

In 2022, the molded chocolate segment is driving the market with the largest market share over the forecast period.

Based on the product, the Japan chocolate market is bifurcated into Softlines/ Selflines, Countlines, Molded Chocolates, and Other Products. Among these, the molded chocolate segment held the largest market share over the forecast period owing of the molded chocolates are popular in Japan due to their attractive shapes and packaging, which often makes them an ideal gift or souvenir. Japanese consumers also appreciate the high quality and creativity of the molded chocolates offered by domestic and foreign brands.

In 2022, the Supermarkets/Hypermarkets segment is dominating the largest market during the forecast period.

Based on the distribution channel, the Japan chocolate market is divided into Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets, Specialist Retailers, Convenience Stores, Online Channels, and Other Distribution Channels. Among these, Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets are projected the largest market share over the forecast period, due to the market players are increasing the availability of their products in different supermarket chains owing to the increased shelf space and product display. The most popular options among customers are dark chocolates, chocolate bars, multipacks, and chocolate boxes. The factors that increase the sales of these retail formats and greatly contribute to the high penetration into the chocolate industry include business growth and the increase in the number of supermarkets and hypermarkets. Moreover, due to the constant price reductions, consumers view shopping at hypermarkets and supermarkets as beneficial. As a result, both international and local companies debut their products in these establishments using different marketing techniques in an effort to expand their customer base among the target market.

Competitive Analysis:

The report offers the appropriate analysis of the key organizations/companies involved within the Japan Chocolate Market along with a comparative evaluation primarily based on their product offering, business overviews, geographic presence, enterprise strategies, segment market share, and SWOT analysis. The report also provides an elaborative analysis focusing on the current news and developments of the companies, which includes product development, innovations, joint ventures, partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, strategic alliances, and others. This allows for the evaluation of the overall competition within the market.

List of Key Companies

• Nestle Japan Co. Ltd.
• Meiji Holdings Co. Ltd.
• Morinaga & Company Ltd.
• Lindt & Sprungli AG
• Lotte Corporation
• Ezaki Glico
• Royce Confect Co., Ltd.
• Yuraku Seika Co. Ltd.

Key Target Audience

• Market Players
• Investors
• End-users
• Government Authorities 
• Consulting and Research Firm
• Venture capitalists
• Value-Added Resellers (VARs)

Market Segment

This study forecasts revenue at global, regional, and country levels from 2022 to 2032. Spherical Insights has segmented the Japan Chocolate Market based on the below-mentioned segments:

Japan Chocolate Market, By Type

• Milk Chocolate
• White Chocolate
• Dark Chocolate

Japan Chocolate Market, By Product Type

• Softlines/ Selflines
• Countlines
• Molded Chocolates
• Other Products

Japan Chocolate Market, By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets
• Specialist Retailers
• Convenience Stores
• Online Channels
• Others