Japanese sushi magnate Kiyoshi Kimura, widely known as the “Tuna King,” has set a new record after paying an astonishing ¥510.3 million (about $3.2 million) for a massive bluefin tuna at Tokyo’s first fish auction of 2026.
Kimura, president of Kiyomura Corporation, secured the 243-kilogram bluefin, which was caught off Japan’s northern coast, during the annual New Year auction at Tokyo’s main fish market.
Speaking after the bidding, Kimura admitted he was surprised by the final price. “I expected it to be cheaper,” he said. “I thought it might end around 300 or 400 million yen, but before I knew it, the price had gone over 500 million.”
The winning bid marks the highest tuna auction price since 1999. The previous record at the Toyosu market was set in 2019, when a 278-kilogram bluefin sold for ¥333.6 million following the relocation from Tsukiji to Toyosu. In comparison, last year’s top tuna fetched ¥207 million for a 276-kilogram fish.
Industry experts say the soaring price reflects a rebound in tuna stocks after years of decline. Dave Gershman of the Pew Charitable Trusts noted that Pacific bluefin populations have improved significantly after being “near collapse,” aided by conservation and stock-management efforts during and after the COVID-19 period.
Kimura also expressed optimism about Japan’s economic outlook. “I hope the economy improves this year,” he said, referring to the Takaichi administration’s work-focused agenda. “They plan to work, work, work—and Sushizanmai will work, work, work too.”
