Halal Food Demand Rises in Japan During Ramadan

Halal Food Demand Rises in Japan During Ramadan
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Demand for halal food is increasing across Japan as Muslims observe Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting from dawn to sunset, which this year began in late February and continues through March.

After sunset, Muslims break their daily fast with iftar meals, leading to higher demand for halal-certified foods. In Tokyo’s Ueno district, known for its international visitors and foreign residents, halal grocery stores report strong sales of ingredients including meat, spices, packaged foods, and particularly dates, a traditional food for breaking the fast in accordance with the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his family).

A store manager noted that dates are among the top-selling items during Ramadan, reflecting their cultural and religious significance.

As Japan’s Muslim population grows, halal specialty stores are increasingly playing a key role in supporting diverse food cultures and meeting the needs of both residents and international visitors observing the holy month.