Japan’s beef industry faces challenges in 2026 as the domestic cattle herd declines, resulting in reduced slaughter and inventory. Rising beef prices, outpacing income growth, weaken consumer demand, making beef less accessible. Fast-food chains may benefit, but other sectors will struggle. Beef imports may rise slightly to offset stagnant production but remain limited due to weak demand, depreciation of the yen, and high costs. Meanwhile, Japan’s pork market remains resilient, with stable swine inventory and strong consumption driven by affordability. Pork imports, which slowed in late 2025, are expected to rebound in 2026 to meet demand. The United States is the largest supplier of imported pork to Japan, as well as the second largest for beef.