The Kochi Seafood Export Promotion Association, based in Kochi Prefecture, Japan, plays a strategic role in the promotion, support, and development of seafood exports from the region. As a collective initiative formed in collaboration with local fisheries, aquaculture producers, and government agencies, the association aims to bring the rich marine offerings of Kochi to international markets while maintaining high standards of quality, traceability, and sustainability.
Core Objectives and Activities
The association’s primary mission is to promote seafood from Kochi Prefecture to overseas markets by:
- Supporting local fisheries and aquaculture farms in achieving export readiness.
- Coordinating international marketing and promotional campaigns.
- Facilitating trade participation in international seafood expos.
- Providing quality assurance and export logistics support to local producers.
- Acting as a liaison between buyers and producers.
Seafood Offerings from Kochi Prefecture
Kochi is located on the southern coast of Shikoku Island and boasts access to the Pacific Ocean. Its geographical advantage, coupled with clean waters and advanced aquaculture technologies, allows for the harvest of high-quality seafood.
Key Export Products
- Wild-Caught Fish
- Including species such as bonito (katsuo), horse mackerel (aji), and sardines.
- Farmed Fish
- Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus orientalis): Carefully farmed in offshore pens using eco-conscious feed and growth management.
- Amberjack / Yellowtail (Seriola quinqueradiata): A specialty of Kochi, often branded and traceable to specific farms.
- Value-Added Products
- Prepared fillets, frozen cuts, and smoked seafood items tailored for international markets.
Market Reach and Distribution Strategy
With the support of Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and local government, the association works to expand the reach of Kochi seafood to the following key markets:
- United States
- European Union
- Southeast Asia (Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam)
- Hong Kong and Taiwan
The association acts as a central hub for coordinating shipments, trade inquiries, and certifications, thus streamlining the export process for small- and medium-sized producers in the region.
Quality and Safety Standards
All seafood promoted by the Kochi Seafood Export Promotion Association adheres to Japan’s rigorous food safety protocols. Producers under the association’s umbrella follow:
- HACCP-based hygiene management
- Traceability systems for farmed and wild fish
- Third-party inspection certifications where required
- Cold chain logistics from dock to port
Certifications and Sustainability
- Products are cultivated or harvested under sustainable fisheries guidelines established by the Japanese Fisheries Agency.
- Many aquaculture farms in Kochi are progressing toward certification under ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) and MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) standards.
- The association promotes responsible fishing practices and eco-labeling to attract environmentally conscious buyers.
Promotional Activities and Achievements
- Regular participation in major international seafood exhibitions including Seafood Expo Global (Brussels/Barcelona) and Japan International Seafood & Technology Expo (Tokyo).
- Development of multilingual promotional materials and digital content to support global outreach.
- Successfully facilitated the export of Kochi-branded yellowtail to the U.S. and EU markets, achieving increased brand awareness.
- Featured in national initiatives such as the Cool Japan Export Promotion Program for premium food products.
Support for Producers
The Kochi Seafood Export Promotion Association provides end-to-end export assistance to local producers, including:
- Export documentation and customs support.
- Product standardization and packaging consultation.
- International buyer matchmaking and contract facilitation.
- Technical training on food safety, sustainability, and international compliance.
As an advocate for Kochi’s seafood sector, the association continues to elevate the global profile of Japan’s coastal bounty by focusing on quality, sustainability, and market-driven product development. It represents a model of how regional collaboration can create global market access for traditional fisheries and modern aquaculture enterprises alike.
