The EastFruit team reports that "Fruit Voyage," an Uzbek company, has initiated the first commercial shipment of fresh Uzbek Meyer lemons to Japan. This marks a milestone as the first export batch was delivered in February 2025. "Fruit Voyage" is part of the "Exim Agro" Group, located in the Kuva district of Fergana, Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan's focus on Meyer lemons, noted for their distinct appearance and taste, facilitated this export. Japan's market is recognized for its interest in unique niche fruits, presenting an opportunity for Uzbek producers.
Entering the Japanese market posed challenges due to its stringent quality and safety standards. Japanese importers typically exercise caution with new partners, making this initial shipment noteworthy.
This shipment was a trial batch, sent by air. To sustain future collaborations, "Fruit Voyage" plans to enhance packaging and explore new logistics solutions. The company is now negotiating further exports of Uzbek lemons, melons, seedless grapes, pomegranates, and persimmons to Japan.
Meyer lemons, a natural hybrid believed to originate from China, differ from regular lemons with their mild and sweet taste. They were introduced to the West by Frank Nicholas Meyer, who discovered them in China in 1908. Despite their unique flavor, Meyer lemons have limitations in commercial horticulture due to their thin skin and susceptibility to the Citrus tristeza virus (CTV).
In the 1950s, the University of California developed a virus-free strain, "Improved Meyer Lemon," reviving interest in this variety. It gained popularity among chefs and home cooks for its culinary uses, especially during its peak season from December to March.
Japan imports over 75,000 tons of fresh lemons annually, primarily from the USA and New Zealand. The demand for alternative sources, including Meyer lemons, is growing. "Fruit Voyage" sees potential for Uzbekistan to become a reliable supplier to Japan, leveraging the country's agro-climatic conditions.
In 2023, Uzbekistan harvested over 120,000 tons of lemons but exported only about 4%. The Meyer lemon, with its distinct characteristics, could become a key export, positioning Uzbekistan as a unique player in the global lemon market.
Source: EastFruit