A bluefin tuna fetched a record 510.3 million yen ($3.2 million; £2.4 million) at the first auction of the year at Tokyo's Toyosu fish market on Monday. The winning bid was placed by Kiyomura Corp, the company behind the Sushi Zanmai chain, a well-known sushi restaurant group with locations both in Japan and internationally.

The 243kg tuna commanded a price significantly higher than previous record-setting bids. Kiyoshi Kimura, president of Kiyomura Corp, and a regular participant in the annual New Year's auction, acknowledged his surprise at the final price. He had previously set record prices in 2012 and 2013, paying 56.5 million yen and 155 million yen respectively. In 2019, he purchased a bluefin tuna for 333.6 million yen.

The high price reflects the cultural significance of the first tuna auction of the year in Japan, where it is believed to bring good luck. The auction serves as a barometer for the health of the market and consumer demand for high-quality seafood. The bluefin tuna, in particular, is a prized delicacy, and the high price underscores its continued popularity despite concerns about overfishing and sustainability.

Kiyomura Corp, under the leadership of Kiyoshi Kimura, who is often referred to as the "Tuna King," has a history of aggressive bidding at these auctions. This strategy provides significant publicity for the Sushi Zanmai chain, reinforcing its image as a provider of top-quality tuna. The company's willingness to invest heavily in securing the first tuna of the year demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a premium brand identity.

While the record price is a noteworthy event, the long-term impact on the bluefin tuna market remains to be seen. Concerns about sustainability and responsible fishing practices continue to be relevant. The high price may further incentivize fishing, potentially exacerbating existing environmental challenges. However, it also highlights the value placed on quality and tradition within the Japanese seafood market.