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The Japan non-dairy milk market was valued at USD 2.66 Billion in 2025. The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.90% during the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach a valuation of USD 6.24 Billion by 2035.
Japan's non-dairy milk industry is seeing major developments fuelled by health-driven consumers and innovation. Companies like Yakult Honsha has joined the plant-based arena with its new brand, "The Power of Soy Milk," introducing fermented soymilk products that use lactobacilli and bifidobacteria to bring out the flavor and eliminate the beany smell normally found in soy. This development involves the opening of Yakult Plants Factory, targeting 100,000 units production per day, thus bolstering the Japan non-dairy milk market growth.
In the realm of distribution, companies such as Oatly have increased their footprint in Japan by collaborating with giant online platforms including Amazon Japan and Rakuten Ichiba, where they are providing special online sets and subscription plans. Players such as Aeon and Seijo Ishii are embracing omnichannel approaches, moving both online and offline channels together to offer customers an easy shopping experience.
In addition, artificial intelligence integration in product development is on the horizon. One study, "Food Development through Co-creation with AI: bread with a 'taste of love'," discusses applying AI to design products that appeal to customers' emotions, demonstrating possible use cases in creating non-dairy milk products that fit consumers' tastes.
Base Year
Historical Period
Forecast Period
Compound Annual Growth Rate
8.9%
Value in USD Billion
2026-2035
*this image is indicative*
| Japan Non-Dairy Milk Market Report Summary |
Description |
Value |
|
Base Year |
USD Billion |
2025 |
|
Historical Period |
USD Billion |
2019-2025 |
|
Forecast Period |
USD Billion |
2026-2035 |
|
Market Size 2025 |
USD Billion |
2.66 |
|
Market Size 2035 |
USD Billion |
6.24 |
|
CAGR 2019-2025 |
Percentage |
XX% |
|
CAGR 2026-2035 |
Percentage |
8.90% |
|
CAGR 2026-2035- Market by Product Type |
Oat Milk |
10.3% |
|
CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by Distribution Channel |
Online |
14.6% |
Consumers are increasingly adopting plant-based diets on account of health issues, including lactose intolerance. They are seeking lower-calorie options. Approximately 45% of the Japanese population claim lactose intolerance. This prevalence has resulted in a further demand for non-dairy milk alternatives. Factors like better cardiovascular health and weight management associated with plant-based diets, further fuel such demand.
The Japanese government has been promoting plant-based diets for health benefits, boosting the Japan non-dairy milk market growth. Some of the government-imposed measures include promoting subsidies for plant-based food production and undertaking promotional activities to educate about the benefits of plant-based diets. For instance, the government has invested USD 27.7 million in Umami United and IntegriCulture. Moreover, government policies supporting sustainable farming practices have promoted the cultivation of crops for use in plant-based milk production.
The Japan non-dairy milk market experiences heavy demand for new and innovative product offerings that satisfy diverse consumer needs and preferences. Companies like Blue Diamond Growers, for example, introduced Extra Creamy Almond Milk to address the needs of consumers looking for more indulgent plant-based milk. Similarly, Sapporo Holdings Ltd. ventured into non-dairy yogurt by utilizing ingredients such as soy, coconut, and almond to broaden its product offerings.
The expansion of e-commerce has considerably boosted the scope for the Japan non-dairy milk market expansion. These platforms enable consumers to access a varied range of products as per their convenience. For instance, Oatly partnered with Amazon Japan and Rakuten Ichiba to enhance national distribution, offering exclusive online bundles and subscription models. Retailers like Aeon and Seijo Ishii have adopted omnichannel strategies, enabling click-and-collect options and in-app promotions. Retailers are increasingly employing omnichannel strategies, combining both physical as well as digital platforms. In addition, extensive smartphone penetration and internet usage further reinforce the prevalence of this trend, facilitating smooth in-home shopping experiences for consumers.
Demand in the Japan non-dairy milk market is fueled by a growing vegan population coupled with rising health awareness. The rise in Japan’s vegan population is notably impacting the non-dairy milk market, particularly in urban centers like Tokyo and Osaka. Events such as the Tokyo Vegan Gourmet Festival and Vegan Expo Japan have seen rising attendance, drawing over 10,000 visitors in 2023 alone. These platforms provide direct B2B opportunities for plant-based milk brands to engage retailers, cafés, and distributors, accelerating product trials and retail partnerships.
The EMR’s report titled “Japan Non-Dairy Milk Market Report and Forecast 2026-2035” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Product Type
Key Insight: Almonds have gained favour in drinks, sweets, and other types of food items, boosting their dominance in the Japan non-dairy milk market. Japanese consumers view almond milk as a healthy alternative to regular milk. Milk sourced from almonds offers various properties as they are low in calorie and rich in vitamins. As consumers increasingly demand plant-based alternatives, this product category is expected to cultivate further demand in the market.
Market Breakup by Distribution Channel
Key Insight: Offline retail has been the dominant sales channel, fueling the Japan non-dairy milk market growth. Consumers prefer evaluating the product's quality and freshness before making purchasing decisions. Retailers such as Aeon and Ito Yokado have increased shelf space for non-dairy milk products, incorporating smart labels and QR codes for traceable sourcing. In-store sampling and nutritionist-led promotion in supermarkets also promote consumer awareness and product visibility.
By Product Type, Almond Milk Registers Significant Share in the Market
Almond milk dominates the non-dairy milk market in Japan. Distribution mainly via online channels, coupled with leading manufacturers such as Ezaki Glico, Pokka Sapporo, and Marusan has supported this particular segment’s dominance. Almond milk's popularity results from its low calorie and vitamin-rich properties, delicate taste, and compatibility in various cuisines.
|
CAGR 2026-2035 - Market by |
Product Type |
| Oat Milk |
10.3% |
| Almond Milk |
9.6% |
| Coconut Milk |
XX% |
| Cashew Milk |
XX% |
| Others |
XX% |
Oat milk has become the fastest-growing category in the Japan non-dairy milk market, fuelled by its attractive creamy texture and versatility. The subtle taste and smoothness render it a popular option for use as coffee, baking, and cooking ingredient, fitting both classic and contemporary Japanese cuisines. In September 2024, Meiji announced the nationwide rollout of its “Meiji Whole Oats Oat Milk,” enriched with beta-glucan for added health benefits, following its initial launch in the Kanto region. This expansion underscores the growing consumer demand for functional plant-based beverages. Additionally, international brands like Danone’s Alpro have entered the Japanese market, further fuelling the popularity of oat milk among health-conscious consumers. Moreover, oat milk is frequently fortified with key nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, which adds to its nutritional value and makes it a healthy, wholesome alternative to traditional dairy milk.
By Distribution Channel, Offline Retail Channels Secure the Leading Position in the Market
Non-dairy milk demand in Japan is primarily stimulated by offline retailing channels such as supermarkets and hypermarkets. These channels constituted a substantial share of the market. The segment gains traction as offline stores house a vast number of products. These retail chains grant an extensive network to allow easy access to non-dairy milk products and fulfil consumers' shopping experience.
Online retail is the fastest-growing channel that has contributed to the Japan non-dairy milk market revenue share. In 2021, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) reported that producers and tourist farms have maintained and expanded their sales channels by utilizing online platforms to sell directly to consumers. Digital literacy and growth of health-oriented DTC brands has immensely helped this channel gain momentum. Consumers are increasingly favouring online platforms not only for convenience but also to find specialty or niche plant-based foods, such as region-specific or limited-edition non-dairy milk products. This shifting demand is fuelling tremendous innovation in the sector. Subscription services, sustainable packaging efforts, and targeted marketing campaigns are attracting increased consumer attention.
The Japan non-dairy milk market players have increasingly considered quality, innovation, and sustainability, as key areas of focus. They have largely concentrated on introducing nutritionally fortified products, investing in research and development activities for taste and texture improvements and innovations in packaging such as biodegradable cartons. On the other hand, Japan non-dairy milk companies have leveraged the trend of ethical ingredient sourcing to attract eco-conscious consumers. In Japan's non-dairy milk market, key players are innovating with fermentation-enhanced plant-based milks to improve taste, texture, and nutritional value. Companies like Kikkoman and Asahi are developing oat and soy milks using proprietary fermentation techniques that reduce bitterness and boost umami flavour, catering to Japanese taste preferences. These innovations aim to increase local acceptance of non-dairy options while offering health benefits such as improved digestibility and added probiotics. The trend supports Japan’s shift toward sustainable and functional food alternatives.
Established in 1952 in Aichi, MARUSAN-AI CO., LTD. utilizes expertise to develop almond, soy and oat milk. The company specializes in fermentation technologies for richer flavor and sustainability by sourcing locally.
Established in Osaka in 1919, Ezaki Glico Co., Ltd. focuses on limited editions of almond milks featuring Japanese flavours such as matcha and black sesame. The company is also enhancing its online presence via influencer partnerships.
Founded in 1603, Kikkoman leverages its fermentation experience to manufacture soy and oat milk alternatives. The company has also launched a subscription service for plant-based beverages targeting health-conscious office workers.
Founded in 1919 in Barcelona, Danone, through its Alpro brand, develops innovative products such as fiber-rich oat milk. The company is rapidly increasing its presence in the Japanese market via convenience store retailing and QR-code traceability for sourcing transparency.
*Please note that this is only a partial list; the complete list of key players is available in the full report. Additionally, the list of key players can be customized to better suit your needs.*
Other key players in the market are AYAM among others.
Unlock strategic insights with our expertly curated report on the Japan non-dairy milk market trends 2026. Download your free sample today to explore the Japan non-dairy milk market forecast 2026 and 2035, key growth drivers, and competitive landscape. Stay ahead with data-driven insights from a trusted source. Ideal for investors, policymakers, and manufacturers eyeing Southeast Asia’s rising electronics hub.
*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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In 2025, the Japan non-dairy milk market reached an approximate value of USD 2.66 Billion.
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.90% between 2026 and 2035.
The key players in the market include MARUSAN-AI CO., LTD, Ezaki Glico Co., Ltd., Kikkoman Corporation, Danone SA (Alpro), and AYAM, among others.
Key strategies driving the market include investing in AI-powered product development, expanding into functional nutrition segments, optimizing eco-friendly packaging, and collaborating with local farms to appeal to sustainability-focused consumers and diversify their regional product portfolios.
The major product types considered in the market report are almond milk, cashew milk, coconut milk, oat milk, and others.
Explore our key highlights of the report and gain a concise overview of key findings, trends, and actionable insights that will empower your strategic decisions.
| REPORT FEATURES | DETAILS |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Scope of the Report |
Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Drivers and Constraints, Historical and Forecast Market Analysis by Segment:
|
| Breakup by Product Type |
|
| Breakup by Distribution Channel |
|
| Market Dynamics |
|
| Competitive Landscape |
|
| Companies Covered |
|
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