Japan: Beer sales rise ahead of anticipated price hike

Consumers in Japan bought more beer and similar beverages in May ahead of an expected price hike.

Legal revisions that took effect on June 1st regulate excessive discounts by retailers.

Last-minute buying pushed up sales year-on-year by 16 percent at Asahi Beer and 14 percent at Suntory.

Kirin Brewery saw sales rise by about 10 percent and Sapporo Breweries 9 percent.

Some retailers began marking up prices at the start of June.

Source and image: NHK