The Kochi Seafood Export Promotion Association is a regional alliance formed to enhance the global presence of Kochi Prefecture's seafood industry. Located in Sukumo, Kochi, Japan, the association works in close coordination with local producers, fisheries cooperatives, processors, and trade bodies to promote the export of high-quality marine products. As a strategic hub, the association focuses on connecting overseas buyers with premium seafood offerings native to Kochi’s rich maritime ecosystems.
Core Activities and Product Categories
The association supports the export of a diverse range of both wild-caught and aquaculture-based seafood items:
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Fresh and Frozen Fish:
- Bonito (Katsuo)
- Red Sea Bream (Madai)
- Bluefin Tuna (Pacific species)
- Japanese Amberjack (Hamachi)
- Alfonsino (Kinmedai)
- Yellowtail
- Freshwater Eel
- Freshwater Shrimp
- Splendid Alfonsino
-
Processed Seafood:
- Ready-to-eat sushi assortments
- Frozen sashimi slices
- Pickled and marinated seafood
-
Farm-Raised Seafood:
- Aquaculture-grown Bluefin Tuna
- Farmed Yellowtail (Buri)
These products are harvested and processed using state-of-the-art techniques to preserve freshness, nutritional value, and safety for global distribution.
Specialization and Core USP
Kochi Seafood Export Promotion Association stands out due to its integrated sourcing network across the Pacific coastline of Kochi and its specialization in high-grade bonito and tuna products. The region benefits from the warm Kuroshio Current, which contributes to the superior quality of its marine life.
Unique Selling Propositions:
- Regional Identity: Focus on branding Kochi seafood under its unique geographical and cultural identity
- Cold Chain Optimization: Partnerships with HACCP-certified processors and logistics providers ensure frozen products meet export-grade standards
- Aquaculture Excellence: Promotion of responsibly farmed fish such as Bluefin Tuna with low environmental impact
- Buyer-Supplier Matching: Customized support for international buyers including product samples, language support, and export coordination
Market Reach and Export Statistics
While detailed export figures for the association are aggregated under member organizations, trade activity reports and industry data highlight the following:
- Top Export Destinations: Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Vietnam, and the United States
- Key Products Exported: Frozen bonito fillet, sashimi-grade bluefin tuna, ready-to-eat sushi assortments
- Estimated Export Volume (2023): Over 1,500 metric tons of seafood supported through association member initiatives
- Member Export Success Rate: Over 70% of active members recorded at least one international shipment facilitated by the association
Target Markets
The association targets premium and mid-range buyers seeking Japanese authenticity, including:
- High-end Sushi Restaurants
- Seafood Importers and Distributors
- Japanese Food Supermarkets
- Department Store Grocery Sections
- Online Gourmet Retailers
These markets appreciate the blend of freshness, regional heritage, and traceability that Kochi seafood offers.
Operational Capabilities
- Network of Processors: Ties with over 30 certified seafood processing companies in Kochi Prefecture
- Multilingual Trade Support: English, Mandarin, and Japanese support for foreign buyers
- Sampling Programs: Participation in trade expos like FOODEX Japan, Seafood Expo Global, and overseas tasting sessions
- Logistics Partnerships: Cooperation with cold-chain shipping companies for international freight services
Certifications and Regulatory Support
Member producers and processors under the association’s umbrella generally comply with:
- HACCP Standards
- Japanese Export Fisheries Inspection
- JFS-B/JFS-C Food Safety Guidelines
- Eco-Aquaculture Certifications (for selected suppliers)
These certifications ensure that seafood shipments meet the highest standards for food safety and international trade compliance.
Stakeholder Testimonials
Although the association does not publish direct testimonials, participating companies and trade show organizers have noted:
- “The association provides critical visibility for regional producers in global markets.”
- “Buyers appreciate the transparency and quality assurance built into the Kochi seafood supply chain.”
- “Strong coordination between fisheries and export agents makes sourcing from Kochi reliable and efficient.”
Major Achievements
- Facilitated the launch of the Kochi Fresh seafood campaign internationally
- Organized collective participation of Kochi fisheries in over 10 global trade exhibitions over the past three years
- Supported over 100 international business matchings since its formation
- Recognized by Kochi Prefectural Government and JETRO for its contributions to regional export development
The Kochi Seafood Export Promotion Association continues to be a driving force in positioning Japan’s coastal treasures onto the plates of global consumers, upholding sustainability, authenticity, and unmatched freshness in every shipment.
