In response to the uncertainties surrounding the importation of foreign vegetables, Japanese food companies are increasingly sourcing their vegetables from within the country.
The agriculture ministry of Japan has noted that for the past twenty years, imports have made up about 30 percent of the vegetables consumed in restaurants and other food-related businesses. Despite the cost-effectiveness of purchasing vegetables grown abroad, there is a growing trend among food-processing firms to favor domestically produced vegetables.
Delica Foods Holdings, a company specializing in precut vegetables, is aiming to decrease its dependence on Chinese onions following supply chain disruptions experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The firm's strategy includes raising the share of onions sourced from Japan to approximately 80 percent by 2029, up from the current 40 percent. Delica Foods intends to manage procurement expenses by entering into long-term agreements with local farmers and enhancing logistics operations. "Imports could stop in future, not only for economic reasons, but for a variety of factors. I think it is important to grow vegetables in Japan to avoid such a situation," stated Delica Foods President, Osaki Yoshiyasu.
Additionally, the agriculture ministry is exploring methods to increase the utilization of Japanese-grown vegetables by engaging in discussions with a range of stakeholders, such as producers, wholesalers, and restaurant owners.
Source: NHK World Japan