How Japanese Agriculture is Thriving Amid Global Demand
Japan’s agricultural, forestry, and fisheries exports reached a record 1.5 trillion yen ($9.7 billion) in 2024, marking a 3.7% increase from the previous year. This 12th consecutive year of growth was fueled by strong global demand for Japanese food and a weak yen.
Despite trade restrictions from China and Hong Kong, Japan’s food exports surged in markets like the U.S. and Taiwan, reinforcing its position as a global food powerhouse.
The value of Japan’s agricultural, fisheries and forestry product exports rose 3.7 percent in 2024 from a year earlier to 1.5 trillion yen ($9.6 billion), setting a new record, driven by growing demand for the country’s cuisine overseas, the government said Tuesday.
According to Kyodo News, the 2024 figure marked a new record for the 12th consecutive year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and came as Japan aims to boost farm and seafood exports to 2 trillion yen by 2025.
Last year, the United States was Japan’s top export destination. Shipments to the world’s biggest economy jumped 17.8 percent from the previous year to 242.9 billion yen, making up nearly 20 percent of total exports.
Key Highlights of Japan’s Food Export Growth
- Total exports hit 1.507 trillion yen ($9.7 billion), a 3.7% increase from 2023.
- China’s seafood ban led to a 29.1% drop in exports to China and 6.6% decline in Hong Kong.
- Exports to the U.S. (+17.8%) and Taiwan (+11.2%) offset losses from China.
- Rice exports surged 27.8%, while green tea exports increased 24.6%.
- Beef exports climbed 12.1%, driven by rising global demand.
- Scallop exports rebounded 42.6% in December, surpassing pre-ban levels.
Why Japan’s Food Exports Are Booming
Rising Demand for Japanese Food Worldwide
The global Japanese food trend has driven high demand for rice, beef, green tea, and seafood. Consumers worldwide are increasingly embracing Japanese cuisine, leading to higher exports of traditional ingredients.
Rice exports rose 27.8%, thanks to growing popularity in Southeast Asia and the U.S.. Meanwhile, green tea exports jumped 24.6%, fueled by the global health trend and increased consumption in the U.S. and Europe.
The Impact of a Weak Yen on Exports
Japan’s weaker yen made Japanese agricultural products more affordable for international buyers, increasing export competitiveness. This has boosted sales in key markets like the U.S., Taiwan, and Europe.
For example:
- U.S. imports of Japanese food grew 17.8%, as American consumers embraced premium Japanese ingredients.
- Taiwanese imports increased 11.2%, highlighting a growing market for Japanese seafood, tea, and meat.
Overcoming the China Seafood Ban
Japan’s seafood industry faced challenges after China and Hong Kong imposed bans on Japanese seafood following the Fukushima water release in August 2023.
- China’s imports of Japanese food fell 29.1%, while Hong Kong’s declined 6.6%.
- To counteract these losses, Japan expanded seafood exports to alternative markets like the U.S., Taiwan, and Europe.
- Scallop exports surged 42.6% in December, surpassing pre-ban levels, due to diversified sales channels.
Japan’s Strategy for Achieving 2 Trillion Yen in Exports
Japan’s government has set an ambitious target of 2 trillion yen ($13 billion) in food exports by 2025. Farm Minister Taku Eto acknowledged that while this is a “high hurdle,” it is not unachievable.”
Key strategies include:
- Expanding new export markets beyond China, focusing on Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America.
- Promoting premium Japanese foods like Wagyu beef, sake, and green tea.
- Strengthening global partnerships with retailers and food distributors.
Conclusion: Japan’s Agricultural Exports Set for Continued Growth
Despite geopolitical challenges and trade restrictions, Japan’s farm and food exports continue to grow, driven by strong global demand and smart market diversification.
With government support and rising interest in Japanese cuisine worldwide, Japan is on track to reach its 2 trillion yen export goal, securing its position as a major player in the global food industry.
