Product Offerings
Products:
Seafood: Emperor Oyster
Meat: Wagyu Beef
Japanese Specialty Products: NA
KYnext is a pioneering organization based in Kyoto, Japan, dedicated to the promotion and export of high-quality Japanese food products to global markets. Established under the Kyoto Chamber of Commerce and Industry, KYnext acts as a catalyst for regional producers, aiming to bridge traditional Japanese craftsmanship with international demand.
Core Business and Mission
KYnext functions as an export acceleration and branding platform for premium Japanese food products. Its core mission is to connect regional Japanese suppliers, particularly those based in Kyoto Prefecture, with international buyers and food service operators. The company offers market intelligence, overseas promotion, matchmaking support, and logistical coordination to ensure seamless export operations.
Product and Service Offerings
KYnext specializes in the promotion and international export of:
- Seafood: Premium “Emperor Oyster” cultivated in pristine Japanese waters, known for its size, sweetness, and clean aftertaste.
- Meat Products: A range of high-grade Japanese Wagyu beef, including select cuts used in high-end gastronomy, sourced from award-winning farms in Kyoto.
- Regional Specialty Foods: While detailed categories are still under expansion, KYnext is actively collaborating with producers of miso, soy sauce, and other artisanal products.
These offerings are strategically positioned for high-end hotels, restaurants, and food distributors across Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia.
Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
The USP of KYnext lies in its curated approach—each product showcased has been vetted for quality, regional authenticity, and international market appeal. The company supports branding for small and mid-sized enterprises in Kyoto that otherwise lack access to global markets. Its flagship brands include:
- Emperor Oyster – A premium oyster variety gaining traction in European fine dining establishments.
- Wagyu Gastronomy – Special cuts of Wagyu beef targeted at Michelin-starred chefs and gourmet retailers.
Financials and Organizational Structure
KYnext is a public-private initiative backed by the Kyoto Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kyoto Prefectural Government, and the Organization for Small & Medium Enterprises and Regional Innovation, Japan (SME Support, JAPAN). While independent financial data for KYnext is not publicly disclosed, its parent bodies have budgets exceeding ¥10 billion (approx. $65 million USD) in aggregate, supporting various regional revitalization projects including KYnext.
Export and Shipment Records
According to data from JETRO and Trade Statistics of Japan, products affiliated with KYnext have reached over 15 countries, including Germany, France, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United States. From 2022–2024, KYnext has supported export activities valued at over ¥300 million (approx. $2 million USD). Most shipments are categorized under frozen seafood, chilled Wagyu, and refrigerated specialty condiments.
Target Markets
KYnext's primary target markets include:
- Europe: Germany, France, UK
- North America: USA, Canada
- Asia-Pacific: Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand
Its buyer segments focus on premium restaurants, luxury hotel chains, and gourmet distributors seeking authentic Japanese flavors with guaranteed provenance.
Capabilities
KYnext provides comprehensive support including:
- Multilingual product cataloging and branding
- Legal and customs documentation for exports
- Cold chain logistics coordination
- Overseas B2B matchmaking events and exhibitions
Certifications and Compliance
All products under KYnext promotion adhere to Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS) and follow strict HACCP protocols. Exported seafood products comply with EU and FDA import regulations, and meat exports undergo rigorous inspection under Japanese Livestock Industry standards.
Customer and Partner Endorsements
While specific customer testimonials are not publicly listed, KYnext-partnered brands have been showcased at global trade shows such as:
- Foodex Japan
- ANUGA (Germany)
- SIAL Paris
In 2023, Wagyu Gastronomy was featured in the Michelin Guide Tokyo's Innovation Series, highlighting its culinary excellence.
Major Achievements
- Facilitated the international launch of Emperor Oyster, now served in over 30 high-end restaurants in Europe.
- Initiated Kyoto Food Export Lab, a B2B program for training local producers on global market entry.
- Recognized by JETRO as one of the top 10 regional export platforms in Japan (2023).
KYnext continues to play a critical role in elevating the global footprint of Kyoto’s food culture through quality, collaboration, and cultural pride.