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 sushi chain.

The 243kg tuna commanded a significantly higher price than previous record-setting bids. Kiyoshi Kimura, president of Kiyomura Corp, acknowledged his surprise at the final price, stating he had anticipated a lower cost. In comparison, Mr. Kimura paid 56.5 million yen for a bluefin tuna in 2012 and 155 million yen in 2013, both of which were record prices at the time. He also purchased a bluefin tuna for 333.6 million yen ($2.1 million; £1.6 million) in 2019.

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 bluefin tuna market and the overall demand for high-quality seafood. The record price suggests continued strong demand, despite concerns about overfishing and the sustainability of bluefin tuna populations.

Kiyomura Corp, operating the Sushi Zanmai chain, has a history of high-profile bids at the annual auction. President Kiyoshi Kimura, often dubbed the "Tuna King," has used these purchases to generate publicity and reinforce the chain's image as a provider of premium tuna. The company operates both domestically and internationally, and the high-profile purchase is expected to draw customers to its restaurants.

While the record price underscores the continued demand for bluefin tuna, the long-term outlook for the species remains a concern. Sustainable fishing practices and responsible consumption are crucial to ensuring the future of the bluefin tuna population and the viability of the market.