TOKYO, Mar 06 (News On Japan) –
Bluefin tuna, also known as the “black diamond” of the ocean on account of its rarity, is understood for its wealthy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. However, the market is presently experiencing a shocking shift, with the value of premium bluefin tuna considerably dropping.
Customers are pleasantly stunned, discovering that the once-expensive delicacy is now inside attain. “It’s quite large, yet affordable,” one buyer remarked. “It’s really cheap. I’m really happy and grateful,” added one other.
At one retailer, the value of mid-grade bluefin tuna from Spain has dropped from 1,580 yen per 100 grams final 12 months to only 980 yen, a 40% discount. Shinichi Yamazaki, chief of Nakayo Shoten’s Musashi-Koyama retailer, commented, “I’ve been working here for over 18 years, and I’ve never seen the market this low. Despite the reduced price, the quality is still excellent.”
In December two years in the past, the value of frozen bluefin tuna exceeded 4,200 yen per kilogram. By final December, it had fallen to round 3,200 yen, a drop of practically 1,000 yen in a single 12 months.
This unprecedented worth drop, notably for imported frozen bluefin tuna, has left many questioning why. According to Chief Yamazaki, the demand surged post-COVID, resulting in a worldwide scarcity of tuna. Prices soared to unprecedented ranges, however they have been raised too excessive, inflicting customers to again away. As a end result, suppliers ended up with extreme stock that should not have been there within the first place.
With new tuna catches starting final month, suppliers at the moment are burdened with much more stock, additional driving down costs. Additionally, a downturn within the South Korean economic system, a significant competitor within the bluefin tuna market, has led to fewer consumers, contributing to the value drop.
Tsuyoshi Kumazawa, consultant of Goshu Godo Company, which imports tuna, defined, “Spending on real estate has increased, leaving less money for food. (Consumers) couldn’t keep up with the price of bluefin tuna.”
So, how lengthy will these low costs final? Chief Yamazaki believes it should proceed so long as the excess stock persists, seemingly for just a few extra months. “Bluefin tuna, considered the most delicious type of tuna, is now at this low price. I really want everyone to try it,” he stated.
Source: ANN