Japan’s food prices rose 3.5% year-on-year in July 2026, up from 3.2% in June and marking the fastest increase since February. Prices accelerated for fresh vegetables, fresh fruit, cakes and candies, fish and seafood, meats, alcoholic beverages, and meals eaten out. Growth slowed for dairy products and eggs, oils, fats and seasonings, prepared foods, and beverages. Cereal prices fell for a third consecutive month, declining 2.2% year-on-year after a 2.1% drop in June. Rice prices fell 11.6%, extending their decline for a third straight month and marking their steepest decrease since August 2005.