Japan's Fair Trade Commission conducted raids on six ice cream makers suspected of forming a price cartel. The actions target companies that raised suggested retail prices, potentially impacting wholesale costs and consumers.
The raids took place as the FTC investigated possible collusion among the makers. Morinaga Milk and Meiji are among the companies named in connection with the case.
Officials believe the price increases may have led to higher costs passed on through wholesale channels. This could have ultimately raised expenses for consumers.
The investigation focuses on the dairy and ice cream sector within the broader food industry.
