Exhibiting at World Tea Expo 2025

Choya Umeshu USA Inc, the American arm of the globally renowned CHOYA brand, is dedicated to introducing the authentic taste of Japanese umeshu to the North American market. Based in Burlingame, California, Choya Umeshu USA serves as a strategic outpost for CHOYA’s operations, blending traditional Japanese heritage with modern appeal for Western consumers. Established to meet the growing demand for premium Japanese plum wines and beverages, the U.S. division ensures consistent quality, cultural authenticity, and innovative expansion in the alcohol and non-alcohol beverage categories.

Core Business

Choya Umeshu USA Inc specializes in the import, marketing, and distribution of umeshu (plum wine), a traditional Japanese liqueur made from ume fruit. The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CHOYA Umeshu Co., Ltd., Japan's largest umeshu manufacturer. CHOYA is globally acclaimed for its consistent product quality, commitment to natural ingredients, and dedication to preserving the unique flavors of the ume fruit.

Product and Service Offerings

Choya Umeshu USA’s portfolio includes a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages:

• Umeshu Liqueurs:

  • The CHOYA with Fruit
  • The CHOYA Golden Ume Fruit
  • The CHOYA Natural Honey
  • The CHOYA Natural Shiso
  • The CHOYA Single Year
  • The CHOYA Aged 3 Years
  • The CHOYA Uji Green Tea
  • The CHOYA Kokuto

• Non-Alcoholic Beverages:

  • CHOYA Yowanai Ume Soda
  • CHOYA Yowanai Yuzu Soda

• Special Editions and Premium Labels:

  • The CHOYA From The Barrel
  • The CHOYA Craft Fruit
  • The CHOYA Black
  • The CHOYA Bio Farm Series

These products reflect a blend of traditional brewing methods and modern flavor innovations, aimed at both traditionalists and new generation drinkers.

Specialization and USP

CHOYA’s unique selling proposition lies in its use of 100% domestically grown Japanese Nanko ume from Kishu, Wakayama — considered the finest ume in Japan. All CHOYA products are made without artificial additives or preservatives, underlining the company’s commitment to authenticity and natural taste. The CHOYA brand has become synonymous with quality umeshu globally.

Financial Performance

While CHOYA Umeshu USA Inc does not publish its standalone financials, its parent company, CHOYA Umeshu Co., Ltd., reported global revenues exceeding $100 million annually. The U.S. market has seen consistent double-digit growth in demand for Japanese alcohol, particularly in the premium liqueur segment, boosting the company’s export volumes.

Shipment Records

According to trade data from platforms like ImportYeti and Volza, Choya Umeshu USA has handled over 320 international shipments into the U.S. in the last 5 years, with major ports including Los Angeles and Oakland. Shipment values often range between $40,000–$100,000 per container, primarily consisting of retail packaged bottles and promotional items. Key distribution is through Japanese specialty retailers, Asian markets, and premium liquor stores.

Target Market

The company targets:

• Japanese and Asian expatriates in the U.S.
• Wine and liqueur connoisseurs seeking exotic and premium products
• Health-conscious millennials preferring natural ingredient-based alcoholic beverages
• Restaurants and bars offering Asian fusion or Japanese cuisine

CHOYA’s expansion into non-alcoholic ume beverages has also captured attention among sober-curious consumers and the mocktail community.

Capabilities

• Distribution Network: A robust network of importers, retailers, and restaurant partnerships across major U.S. states
• Storage & Logistics: Cold-chain management and quality control to maintain flavor integrity
• Marketing: Strong digital presence through Instagram, YouTube, and event participation

Certifications and Compliance

• FDA Registered Importer
• Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) compliance
• Eco-labeling on select product lines from CHOYA’s organic ume farms
• ISO 9001 Certified manufacturing in Japan

Customer Testimonials

Numerous online reviews on platforms such as Total Wine, Vivino, and Amazon highlight the exceptional taste and smoothness of CHOYA products:

"Absolutely love The CHOYA with Fruit – the real ume in the bottle is a beautiful touch and makes the drink feel ceremonial."
— Amanda C., Verified Buyer on Total Wine

"Best umeshu available in the U.S. market. Authentic, rich, and a delightful experience every time."
— Kenji M., Japanese Restaurant Owner, California

Major Achievements

• Introduced the first non-alcoholic ume soda in the U.S.
• Won the Monde Selection Gold Award multiple years for The CHOYA Single Year
• Featured in Sake Samurai events and Japanese Culinary Showcases across the U.S.
• Collaborated with premium restaurants for curated umeshu cocktail menus
• Achieved Top 3 rank in Japanese Liqueur Sales in North America by volume (2023)

Choya Umeshu USA Inc continues to evolve as a cultural ambassador, bringing the art and soul of Japanese umeshu to the diverse palates of the American market.