Japan’s top soy sauce brand Kikkoman enters India

The world’s leading producer of naturally brewed soy sauce, Kikkoman Corporation, today announced the official launch of Kikkoman India Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary that will expand its operations in India.

For decades, Kikkoman, the Japanese heritage brand, has been one of the most preferred brands of soy sauce in over 100 countries, where consumers associate one of the best soy sauces with the name Kikkoman. With its official entry in India, Kikkoman aims to become the market leader in the soy sauce and Asian sauces category, within the growing FMCG market in India, as it introduces its renowned naturally brewed ‘Honjozo’ soy sauce to India.

Kikkoman Soy Sauce is a versatile all-purpose seasoning that can be used for all cuisines, including cooking Asian, Western, Japanese, and Indian dishes. The production of Kikkoman soy sauce goes through a fermentation process lasting several months, a process that cannot be rushed. It is vital for the rich yet mellow flavour, appetising aroma, and distinctive bright reddish-brown colour.

Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce is brewed using “The Honjozo method” using only 4 ingredients: water, soybeans, wheat and salt. During the fermentation process that lasts several months, more than 300 different aroma components are generated within Kikkoman Soy Sauce, including hints of flowers, fruits, vanilla and coffee.

“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,” said Harry Hakuei Kosato, Director and India.