CJ CheilJedang Raises Prices on 27 Products, Including Hetbahn

CJ CheilJedang, the food arm of South Korea's CJ Group, said it will raise prices on 27 of its products, a lineup that includes its best-selling Hetbahn instant rice range. The adjustment marks one of the company's broadest pricing moves across its packaged-food portfolio.

The company pointed to persistent cost pressures weighing on its core business as the driver behind the decision. Rising raw material, logistics and production expenses have squeezed margins across the South Korean food industry, pushing manufacturers to pass part of the burden on to consumers.

Hetbahn, a microwaveable rice product that has become a household staple in South Korea, is among the most closely watched items in the revised price list. As a category leader, changes to its price often ripple across the broader instant-meal market and draw attention from shoppers accustomed to the brand.

CJ CheilJedang is one of the country's largest food producers, with a portfolio spanning fresh and processed foods, seasonings and ready meals. Its pricing decisions are seen as a bellwether for the packaged-food sector, where several rivals have also weighed increases amid similar cost dynamics.

For consumers, the move adds to the broader strain of food inflation that has become a recurring concern in South Korea, where grocery costs have climbed steadily. Analysts note that staple products such as instant rice are particularly sensitive because they feature in everyday household budgets.

CJ CheilJedang has framed the increases as a step to protect the profitability of its packaged-food operations while it continues to navigate an uncertain cost environment. The company has not indicated whether further adjustments could follow if input prices remain elevated.