Uwajima Project Co., Ltd., based in Uwajima City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan, is an innovative aquaculture and seafood processing company renowned for its pioneering approach to premium fish farming. Specializing in value-added, flavor-enhanced seafood products, Uwajima Project is globally recognized for integrating local agriculture with aquaculture through its signature offerings such as Mikan Buri (citrus-fed yellowtail), Mikan Tai (citrus-fed sea bream), and Uwajima Salmon. The company leverages the pristine coastal waters of the Seto Inland Sea and regional agricultural byproducts to cultivate sustainable and highly differentiated seafood for discerning domestic and international markets.
Core Business and Product Offerings
Uwajima Project has redefined aquaculture by introducing branded, feed-enhanced fish that deliver superior taste and health benefits. Their key products include:
- Mikan Buri (みかんぶり): Yellowtail fed with feed containing local mikan (mandarin orange) peels, which enhances umami, reduces fishy odor, and introduces citrus aromatics.
- Mikan Tai (みかん鯛): Sea bream similarly raised on citrus-based feed for mild flavor and reduced post-harvest oxidation.
- Uwajima Salmon: High-quality farmed salmon adapted to the warmer waters of southern Japan, marketed for its tender texture and consistent flavor profile.
- Choco Buri (チョコぶり): Yellowtail fed with chocolate-infused feed, a novelty product combining flavor innovation with luxury food appeal.
Products are delivered in both fresh and frozen formats, including fillets, sashimi-grade cuts, and value-added packs for sushi, retail, and foodservice channels.
Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition
Uwajima Project is globally recognized for its feed innovation and brand-focused aquaculture, setting itself apart through:
- Agro-Aqua Integration: Utilizing regional agricultural byproducts (e.g., citrus peels) to enhance sustainability and product differentiation.
- Flavor-Engineered Aquaculture: Controlled feeding protocols that enhance umami and reduce off-flavors in fish meat.
- Local Terroir Branding: Aligning product identity with the natural and cultural heritage of Uwajima and the Setouchi region.
- Environmental Stewardship: Operating low-density fish farms to minimize stress, waste accumulation, and ecological impact.
These practices not only produce high-quality seafood but also support circular agriculture and sustainable coastal economies.
Financial Performance
Uwajima Project Co., Ltd. is a privately owned SME and does not publicly disclose financials. However:
- Estimated Revenue (2022): JPY 400–600 million (~USD $3–5 million)
- Annual Production Volume: Over 100 metric tons of branded yellowtail and sea bream
- Export Ratio: Approximately 30–40% of products shipped to Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and emerging EU and U.S. markets
The company’s niche premium pricing and strong brand recognition enable it to maintain healthy profit margins and sustainable operations.
Export and Shipment Activity
Uwajima Project is active in cross-border seafood trade and collaborates with Japanese export promotion agencies and global distributors:
- Key Export Markets: Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, France, and select high-end U.S. retailers
- Logistics: Chilled air freight with MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging) and frozen logistics to ensure freshness and shelf life
- Trade Show Participation: Exhibitor at events like FOODEX Japan, Seafood Expo Asia, and Japan International Seafood Show
The company’s reputation for safe, traceable, and innovative seafood makes it a preferred partner in the luxury seafood segment.
Target Market
Uwajima Project targets a high-end, health-conscious, and gastronomy-driven clientele:
- Japanese and International Fine Dining Restaurants
- Sushi and Sashimi Retail Chains
- Premium Supermarkets and Department Stores
- Distributors and Wholesalers of Japanese Export Foods
- Luxury Food Retailers and Culinary Curators
Their unique flavor-infused fish appeal to chefs seeking differentiation and consumers prioritizing provenance, taste, and health.
Capabilities
- R&D and Feed Formulation: In-house development of citrus and chocolate-based feed blends, supported by local academia.
- Aquaculture Management: Sea pens in nutrient-rich waters, low-stress handling, and selective harvesting.
- Processing Facility: Integrated HACCP-certified plant for sorting, filleting, vacuum packaging, and rapid chilling.
- Brand Marketing: Strong digital storytelling and brand identity tied to regional culture and sustainable innovation.
These capabilities allow Uwajima Project to ensure product integrity from farm to fork, while continuously evolving its offerings.
Certifications and Compliance
Uwajima Project adheres to strict Japanese and international food safety standards:
- HACCP-Certified Processing
- Eco-Farm Certification (Regional)
- JAS (Japan Agricultural Standards) for Aquaculture Practices
- Traceability System for Export Seafood
- Compliance with FDA and EU Import Regulations for all exported seafood
The company maintains full documentation for customs, origin, and safety certifications to streamline global trade.
Customer and Industry Recognition
Uwajima Project has been praised by chefs, retailers, and food critics for its originality and product consistency:
- “Mikan Buri delivers extraordinary balance — a clean flavor with just a hint of citrus. It’s our signature yellowtail.” — Executive Chef, Hong Kong Fine Dining Restaurant
- “Their story is as compelling as their product. It’s terroir seafood at its best.” — Japanese Food Importer, Paris
Positive reviews have driven strong word-of-mouth growth, bolstered by social media and culinary influencer features.
Major Achievements
- Brand Creation of Mikan Buri and Mikan Tai: Successfully differentiated common aquaculture species through proprietary feed innovation.
- Launch of Choco Buri (2022): Introduced as a Valentine's Day specialty product, gaining national and international media coverage.
- Export Growth: Tripled export volume from 2019 to 2023 despite global logistics challenges.
- Regional Economic Impact: Supports citrus farmers through agricultural byproduct upcycling and promotes Uwajima’s regional identity.
Uwajima Project Co., Ltd. exemplifies the fusion of tradition, terroir, and innovation in Japanese aquaculture. With a commitment to flavor, sustainability, and cultural storytelling, the company continues to set new benchmarks in premium seafood branding and sustainable farming practices.