Both the Japanese government and Japanese companies are battling Chinese and South Korean copycats, taking steps to protect the image and integrity of "made in Japan" products. The government, led by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, has revised the Plant Variety Protection and Seed Act. This legislation was partially enforced in early April, with some of the other regulations set to be effective next year. It is intended to better safeguard intellectual property pertaining to the development of new seeds.
"This will protect the brand value, the amendment of the law is highly appreciated," a representative of the Fukuoka branch of the National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Associations, Zen-Noh, told Nikkei Asia. Fukuoka is the home of Hakata Amaou, a premium strawberry variety.
Image: Kei Higuchi - courtesy of Fukuoka Prefecture
Following the amendment, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries listed 1,975 varieties of fruits and vegetables developed in Japan whose seeds and seedlings are barred from being taken out of the country. The list includes many of Japan's best-known premium fruit, vegetable and grain varieties, including Amao strawberries, Shine Muscat grapes, Yumepirika rice and Beniharuka sweet potatoes.