Due to rising naphtha and fuel costs, a long-established tofu shop in Ibigawa Town, Gifu, reluctantly raises prices, warning that tofu packs will be gone after Golden Week.

In addition, the surge in fuel costs adds further pressure.

“We use a steam-fired kiln and an oil boiler, but oil prices have gone up by about 140%. It’s beyond the limit,” said Yuge.

With price increases on everything essential for making tofu, passing on the costs is unavoidable.

“Inside the shop, tofu cooled with pure water is displayed, but there is a notice saying, ‘With great reluctance, we will raise prices from May 1st,'” reported a journalist.

Yuge Meisui-do has decided to raise the price of all tofu products by around 20 yen starting May 1st.

They say this was a painful decision just before the season when people start craving cold tofu.

“I think it’s natural for consumers to pay a fair price,” said one customer.
“I didn’t realize it would have this much impact. As a housewife, it’s a bit troubling,” said another customer.

“I expect profits to be significantly squeezed and we’ll be in the red this term, but we can’t stop. We want to keep prices as low as possible and continue making tofu that makes customers happy,” said Yuge.