Kikkoman Trading Asia Pte Ltd is the regional hub for the Asia-Pacific operations of Kikkoman Corporation, one of the world’s most iconic soy sauce and seasoning brands. With its strategic base in Singapore and significant market presence in Thailand and other ASEAN nations, the company is committed to delivering authentic Japanese flavor through naturally brewed soy sauce, marinades, and a growing portfolio of health-conscious beverages.
Company Overview
Founded in 1917 and headquartered in Japan, Kikkoman Corporation is a publicly listed global company with over a century of experience in soy sauce brewing. Its Asia-Pacific operations are managed through Kikkoman Trading Asia Pte Ltd, which handles regional distribution, marketing, and business development. The company is renowned for fusing traditional brewing methods with modern quality standards, making Kikkoman a staple in both homes and commercial kitchens across the world.
Core Business
Kikkoman’s operations in Southeast Asia include manufacturing partnerships, regional warehousing, and distribution networks. The company’s core product segments include:
Soy Sauce Products
- Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce – Fermented for months using soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. Used as a versatile base seasoning.
- Less Salt Soy Sauce – Retains the umami profile with 43% less sodium.
- Sushi & Sashimi Soy Sauce – Enhanced sweetness and smoothness for raw fish pairing.
Seasoning Sauces
- Teriyaki Sauce – Classic sweet-savory marinade and glaze.
- Thick Marinade Teriyaki – Concentrated for cooking applications.
- Yakiniku No Tare – Japanese BBQ sauce.
- Shoga Yaki No Tare – Ginger pork sauce for quick cooking.
Plant-Based Beverages
- Soymilk Original
- Soymilk Banana Flavor
These are aligned with growing demand for lactose-free, protein-rich drinks.
Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition
Kikkoman is globally known for:
- Naturally brewed soy sauce using traditional Japanese fermentation
- 100+ years of soy sauce manufacturing expertise
- High brand trust and global recognition
- Premium positioning backed by rigorous quality control and international certifications
Their fermentation process results in a distinctive aroma and deep umami flavor, making Kikkoman the preferred choice for chefs and food manufacturers worldwide.
Financials
As part of Kikkoman Corporation (TYO: 2801), the parent company reported the following consolidated financials for FY2023:
- Revenue: ¥550.3 billion (~USD 3.8 billion)
- Net Income: ¥37.4 billion (~USD 260 million)
- Overseas Sales: Accounted for 60% of total revenue
- Asia Region Growth: Over 12% YoY growth led by expanding demand in Southeast Asia
Kikkoman Trading Asia contributes significantly to this growth via regional partnerships and brand licensing.
Export and Shipment Data
Kikkoman products are exported from Japanese and Asian manufacturing hubs to over 100 countries, with established logistics chains serving:
- Thailand
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- Vietnam
- Indonesia
- Philippines
Thailand serves as a high-consumption market due to its dynamic foodservice sector and growing Japanese culinary influence.
Key export insights:
- Products shipped under OEM, private label, and Kikkoman brands
- Found in supermarkets, HORECA, and foodservice bulk packs
- Compliant with Thai FDA and Halal regulations where applicable
Target Market
Kikkoman targets diverse market segments:
- Home cooks and household consumers
- Restaurants and foodservice operators (especially Japanese, Korean, and fusion cuisine)
- Distributors and retail chains
- Health-conscious beverage buyers for plant-based drinks
Capabilities
Kikkoman’s regional operations include:
- Centralized distribution from Singapore and Bangkok
- Local partnerships for warehousing and B2B bulk delivery
- Multilingual labeling and compliance documentation
- Product R&D support for local market preferences
Kikkoman products are stocked in major retailers such as Tesco Lotus, Tops, Big C, and FairPrice, ensuring maximum brand accessibility.
Certifications and Compliance
Kikkoman products meet or exceed international food safety and quality standards:
- ISO 9001: Quality Management
- FSSC 22000: Food Safety
- Halal Certification (for select SKUs)
- Non-GMO Ingredients
- Allergen-compliant labeling in accordance with regional regulations
Packaging includes nutritional details, usage guidance, and sustainability disclosures.
Customer Testimonials
Kikkoman is widely praised for:
- Consistent product quality
- Versatility across cuisines
- Trusted heritage brand with premium flavor
- Recommended by chefs and food bloggers globally
Professional chefs use Kikkoman soy sauce for its unmatched fermentation quality, while home cooks value its accessibility and balance of saltiness and umami.
Major Achievements
- Over 100 years of continuous production
- Exported to over 100 countries, with ASEAN as a key growth region
- Listed among World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere
- Corporate partner with multiple culinary schools in Asia
- Manufacturer of world’s best-selling soy sauce brand
Kikkoman Trading Asia continues to drive strategic growth in Southeast Asia with tailored product lines, cultural adaptation, and local food collaborations.