Japan’s brewed soy sauce maker Kikkoman forays into India

Japanese naturally brewed soy sauce maker Kikkoman has forayed into India with the launch of its wholly owned subsidiary, Kikkoman India Private Limited.

Kikkoman’s soy sauce has been sold in more than 100 countries for several decades.

With the launch of the subsidiary, Kikkoman aims to become a market leader in the soy sauce and Asian sauces category in India.

In India, Kikkoman has introduced its naturally brewed Honjozo soy sauce.

Kikkoman claimed that its soy sauce is an all-purpose seasoning that can be used for Asian, Western, Japanese, and Indian cuisines.

Kikkoman India director Harry Hakuei Kosato said: “India is one of the biggest emerging markets for global businesses and a key driver of growth in Asia. The launch of Kikkoman India will ensure seamless distribution of Kikkoman products exclusively created for India, bringing consumers the opportunity to experience a variety of foods, seasoned with true and authentic Kikkoman Soy Sauce.

“It is the first time that the Kikkoman Corporation has complete and direct control of all aspects of the business in India, where the emphasis shall be on marketing and sales. As our sales volumes in India are expected to grow rapidly to meet rising demand, we hope to shift production to India when the timing is right.”

Kikkoman produces its soy sauce through a fermentation process that lasts for several months.

This fermentation process yields a rich yet mellow flavour and is claimed to provide an appetising aroma and a bright reddish-brown colour.

The company’s soy sauce is brewed using the Honjozo method, which uses four ingredients, notably water, soybeans, wheat and salt.

Kosato added: “Globally, Kikkoman has been the preferred brand for soy sauce because of our pure, natural and high-quality product. Our main focus will be to inform and educate both industry professionals and consumers about the benefits of using our high-quality and naturally brewed soy sauce that contains no preservatives or taste enhancers. We shall work to reach millions and millions of consumers in India.”

Kikkoman plans to access the Indian market through the hospitality and restaurant sector, with a range of naturally brewed soy sauces.

Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce is available in India in 500ml, 1l, 1.8l and 10l bottles.

It plans to also launch other soy sauce related seasonings for both foodservice and consumer retail markets.

Kikkoman India will import all Kikkoman products and manage marketing, sales and distribution in the country.

Carrying a history of more than 350 years in Japan, the present Kikkoman corporate firm was established through a merger of eight families in 1917.