Wagyu and More Power Japan’s Record Export Year
Japan’s Food Exports Hit Record in 2025 on Strong US Demand
Japan’s food exports reached a record high in 2025, driven by surging demand from the United States, reinforcing the country’s growing position as a premium food exporter despite domestic production constraints.
According to Reuters, Japanese food shipments rose strongly year-on-year, with the US retaining its position as Japan’s largest export market. High-value products such as wagyu beef, seafood, processed foods and alcoholic beverages were among the strongest performers.
The expansion reflects rising US consumer interest in premium, origin-led food products, as well as improved market access and branding efforts by Japanese exporters. Wagyu beef continues to play a central role, benefiting from strong foodservice demand and the perception of Japanese products as safe, traceable and high quality.
The Japanese government has set ambitious targets to grow food exports as a pillar of rural economic policy, supporting farmers and processors through marketing initiatives, export infrastructure investment and trade promotion.
Analysts note that Japan’s export growth comes amid tight domestic supply and rising production costs, particularly for livestock. This has raised questions about how far export volumes can expand without putting additional pressure on the domestic market.
Source: Reuters | 3 February 2026
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