Japan probes four major brewers over suspected price collusion

Japan's antitrust watchdog launched an investigation on Wednesday into the country's four largest brewers on suspicion of violating antitrust law by forming a cartel to raise prices of beer and beer-like beverages, according to a source close to the matter.

The Japan Fair Trade Commission's investigation targets companies alleged to have coordinated their actions to adjust prices, affecting the market for beer and beer-like drinks in Japan.

Details of the brewers under investigation and specific price levels have not been disclosed. The move is the latest development in the regulator's efforts to ensure fair competition in Japan's alcoholic beverage market.