A government-linked survey shows Japanese chicken prices have risen to the
highest level since comparable data began in 2003, squeezing restaurant margins.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries surveyed 470 outlets
nationwide from May 11-13 and found average retail price for chicken thigh at
154 yen per 100g (about 6.5 yuan), up 14% year‑on‑year and the highest since
August 2003. The Agriculture and Livestock Industries Corporation attributes the
rise mainly to reduced output from highly pathogenic avian influenza and lower
imports; yen depreciation, higher feed costs and rising fuel expenses are also
cited. Many fried-chicken and yakitori operators report sharply higher
procurement costs, prompting menu price increases or removal of chicken dishes,
while some firms say thin margins make continued operation difficult.
