Exhibiting at Seafood Expo North America 2025

The J-HOTATE Association is a premier Japanese organization dedicated to promoting the global export and consumption of premium Japanese scallops. Based in Sapporo, Japan, the association was established to enhance the global reputation of Japanese HOTATE (scallops) by supporting producers, processors, exporters, and culinary professionals. J-HOTATE works to increase awareness of scallop quality, traceability, sustainability, and culinary versatility, with a strong focus on consumer education and trade partnerships.

Core Mission and Activities

The J-HOTATE Association's mission centers on:

• Export Promotion: Supporting Japan’s scallop industry in accessing and expanding international markets.
• Brand Development: Positioning “HOTATE” as a premium product brand synonymous with quality, sustainability, and tradition.
• Market Education: Sharing knowledge about scallop origins, farming methods, processing practices, and culinary applications.
• Stakeholder Support: Empowering producers, exporters, chefs, and distributors with promotional tools and technical knowledge.

The organization partners with Japanese regional fisheries, national export agencies, and global seafood stakeholders to promote scallop products through trade shows, media campaigns, and B2B networking.

Product Portfolio

The J-HOTATE Association supports and promotes a diverse range of scallop-based products, which include:

Raw and Primary Products:

• Fresh Scallops – Primarily harvested in Hokkaido and Mutsu Bay, known for sweet flavor and plump texture.
• Frozen Scallops – Individually quick frozen (IQF) and block frozen, available in various grades for global markets.
• Boiled Scallops – Ideal for convenience, ready-to-eat formats.
• Dried Scallops (Conpoy) – Premium dried seafood ingredient widely used in Chinese cuisine.

Value-Added and Processed Products:

• Cooked Mutsu Bay Scallops
• Scallop-Based Ready-to-Eat Dishes – Includes dumplings, ceviche, pinchos, and scallop burgers.

These products are available in bulk and retail-ready packaging for foodservice and retail distribution.

Specialisation and Core USP

J-HOTATE’s value proposition lies in:

• Exclusive focus on Japanese scallops, especially those from Hokkaido and Aomori, regions globally recognized for aquaculture excellence.
• Emphasis on sustainable farming and harvesting, including rotational aquaculture practices that support marine biodiversity.
• Support for traceable supply chains, ensuring confidence and food safety in international markets.
• Active culinary engagement, showcasing HOTATE’s versatility in Japanese and international cuisine.

The association provides comprehensive resources for buyers and chefs to explore HOTATE’s applications and quality standards.

Market and Export Impact

Japan is one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of scallops:

• In 2022, Japan exported over 160,000 metric tons of scallops, valued at more than USD 1.5 billion.
• The primary export destinations include China, Hong Kong, the United States, Vietnam, and France.
• Scallops represent over 40% of Japan’s total seafood export value, making them a cornerstone of its global seafood strategy.

J-HOTATE plays a vital role in enhancing the visibility of HOTATE in competitive premium seafood markets.

Target Market

J-HOTATE Association targets:

• Seafood importers and distributors seeking premium, traceable Japanese scallops.
• Fine dining restaurants and chefs using HOTATE in sushi, sashimi, ceviche, and fusion dishes.
• Retailers and gourmet food stores offering frozen and ready-to-cook seafood.
• Institutional buyers in hospitality and airline catering segments.

Its promotional efforts focus heavily on North America, Europe, and East Asia, regions with mature seafood consumption and growing interest in Japanese cuisine.

Capabilities

• Digital and multilingual marketing tools for international buyers and chefs.
• Support for trade show participation (e.g., Seafood Expo Global, FOODEX Japan).
• Development of educational content including recipes, video tutorials, and chef partnerships.
• Export advisory services in packaging, logistics, and regulatory compliance.

The association also facilitates collaboration with certified processors and logistics providers.

Certifications and Compliance

The scallops promoted by J-HOTATE are typically produced in compliance with:

• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)
• ISO 22000 / FSSC 22000 food safety standards
• Marine Eco-Label Japan (MEL) for sustainable fisheries
• FDA and EU-compliant sanitary certifications

These standards assure international buyers of food safety, ethical sourcing, and sustainability.

Culinary Engagement and Videos

To promote culinary creativity with HOTATE, the association has developed video-based recipe content, including:

• HOTATE Scallop and Papaya Ceviche with Wasabi Sauce
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=video1

• Deep-Fried Whole HOTATE Scallop Burger
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=video2

• BABY-HOTATE Scallop Dumplings
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=video3

• Grilled HOTATE Scallop Pinchos
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=video4

These resources help chefs and distributors understand product applications and presentation.

Major Achievements

• Launched HOTATE Global Branding Campaign to boost awareness of Japan-sourced scallops in high-end markets.
• Partnered with Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) on seafood export enhancement programs.
• Developed a portfolio of B2B and B2C educational materials, including cooking videos, product guides, and regional sourcing maps.
• Featured in global media and food shows to promote HOTATE’s culinary and nutritional value.

The J-HOTATE Association continues to elevate the global profile of Japanese scallops by aligning the country’s rich seafood heritage with modern culinary trends and international market demands.