FAS/Tokyo projects Japan’s beef and pork sectors to remain stable in 2026. Cattle inventory and beef production face marginal decreases due to declining breeding cow numbers, though heavier wagyu cattle will allow for maintaining production levels. Beef consumption remains flat as retail sales decline from consumers shifting to cheaper proteins, but are offset by record tourist arrivals that increase demand in the food service sector. Beef imports remain unchanged, with potential U.S. market share gains as Australian prices are near parity with U.S. prices. Pork production, consumption, and imports also hold steady. High costs from the continuing weak yen and elevated feed prices discourage expansion. Despite Spain’s ASF-related import suspension affecting 15 percent of imports, Japan will seek to diversify sourcing while maintaining stable total volumes.