Kunihiro Inc. is a renowned Japanese seafood processor and exporter headquartered in Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture. With over six decades of expertise, the company has earned a reputation as one of Japan’s premier producers of oysters and ready-to-eat seafood products. Under the brand name Kunihiro, the company has built a loyal customer base across Japan and global markets, particularly for its premium-grade oysters and value-added marine delicacies.
Core Business
Kunihiro Inc. specializes in the farming, processing, and export of high-quality seafood products with a primary focus on Hiroshima oysters—a regional specialty. The company manages the entire production cycle from aquaculture and harvesting to processing and distribution, maintaining rigorous standards of hygiene and traceability.
The company’s operations are centered around sustainability and innovation, with a strategic goal of making Japanese seafood traditions accessible to both domestic and global consumers through frozen, chilled, and shelf-stable formats.
Product and Service Offerings
Kunihiro’s diverse product range is segmented into the following core categories:
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Oysters
- Fresh Oysters
- Frozen Oysters
- Steamed Oysters
- Fried Oysters (Kaki Fry)
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Other Seafood
- Clams
- Scallops
- Eels (Unagi)
- Sea Cucumbers
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Ready-to-Eat Foods
- Retort Pouch Meals: Oyster rice, seasoned seafood stews
- Gift Pack Products: Premium seafood assortments, miso chili oil sets
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Specialty Products
- Grilled Eel
- Miso Chili Oil
- Snack Foods
Products are sold in both raw and cooked formats and are available for wholesale, retail, and foodservice channels. Kunihiro also offers customizable OEM services for private label partners.
Specialization and Core USP
Kunihiro Inc.’s core strength lies in its exclusive focus on oyster processing, making it one of the most advanced facilities in Japan for handling this delicate product. The company is based in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan’s top oyster-producing region, and is known for sourcing oysters from nutrient-rich Seto Inland Sea waters.
Key differentiators include:
- Proprietary techniques for de-sanding and sterilizing oysters
- Rapid freezing technologies that retain freshness and umami
- Retort pouch manufacturing capabilities for extended shelf-life and convenience
- HACCP-compliant seafood traceability system
Kunihiro is trusted by Japanese supermarkets, hotels, and international food distributors for its consistent quality and food safety standards.
Financial Performance
As a privately held entity, Kunihiro Inc. does not disclose detailed financials. However, the company is estimated to generate annual revenues exceeding JPY 2 billion (approximately USD 13–15 million) based on its export volume, domestic distribution, and product diversification.
Its consistent presence at global food exhibitions and certifications for export further affirm its financial stability and operational scale.
International Shipments
Kunihiro Inc. is a globally recognized seafood exporter. Export data indicates active trade relationships in:
- Asia: China, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan
- North America: United States, Canada
- Europe: France, Italy, Germany
Kunihiro ships under HS codes such as 0307 (Mollusks) and 1604 (Prepared or Preserved Fish and Seafood). Their frozen and retort oyster products are most commonly exported, along with grilled eel and seafood gift assortments.
Products are packaged in bulk for foodservice or branded formats for retail.
Target Market
Kunihiro targets a wide array of market segments:
- Domestic Japanese retailers and supermarkets
- High-end restaurants and hospitality chains
- International seafood importers and wholesalers
- Gift and gourmet food retailers
- Private label partners in premium seafood segments
The brand’s appeal is strongest in markets seeking authentic Japanese seafood with a reputation for food safety and traditional flavor.
Capabilities
The company operates advanced seafood processing facilities that include:
- Oyster cleaning and shucking automation
- Flash freezing and individual quick freezing (IQF) systems
- HACCP-certified retort food processing line
- Vacuum-sealing and modified atmosphere packaging units
- Cold storage and logistics hubs for temperature-controlled shipping
These capabilities allow Kunihiro to scale production for export while maintaining artisanal quality and product integrity.
Certifications and Compliance
Kunihiro Inc. meets multiple domestic and international standards:
- HACCP Certification – Hazard control for oyster and seafood production
- ISO 22000 – Food Safety Management System
- Japan Fisheries Association Certification – Traceability and quality endorsement
- Export Approval – Registered exporter to the US, EU, China, and ASEAN countries
These certifications ensure market access to regions with strict import and health standards.
Customer Testimonials
While direct testimonials are limited in English, industry reviews and buyer feedback highlight:
“Kunihiro’s frozen oysters are our restaurant’s go-to for Japanese-style dishes. Quality is consistently outstanding.” – Japanese Izakaya Chef, Singapore
“Their grilled eel gift sets are a customer favorite during Lunar New Year.” – Asian Gourmet Retailer, Los Angeles
Major Achievements
- 60+ Years of Operation: Established legacy in Japan’s oyster industry
- Global Reach: Exporting to over 20 countries across Asia, Europe, and North America
- Innovative Packaging: Among the first in Japan to commercialize oyster retort pouches
- Trade Fair Presence: Regular exhibitor at FOODEX Japan, SIAL Paris, and Seafood Expo Global
- Sustainability Initiatives: Participation in sustainable aquaculture and marine conservation partnerships
Kunihiro Inc. remains a pillar of Japan’s seafood processing industry, combining traditional expertise with global vision to deliver some of the finest oysters and seafood products from the Seto Inland Sea to plates around the world.