USDBC AND THE US GOVERNMENT FOCUSED ON JAPAN PROSPECTS IN 2019

Bean based dishes from Japan

Japan has always been one of the most important strategic and trade partners for the U.S. and for U.S. agriculture. While Japan ranks around 9th among the US dry bean industry’s export markets, we believe there is potential to gain greater market share.  Japan normally imports  between 50,000 to 60,000 MT of dry beans from around the world annually, which is limited by a quota system. Japan is about a 7,000 MT market for exports of US dry beans but historically, the US has exported as much as 16,000 MT a year. We see room for growth.

Sweets made with beans

The U.S. and Japan continue to move towards formal trade discussions. We are encouraged that while a trade deal with Japan has been elusive for many years, things seem to be moving towards formal negotiations. At the same time, USDBC is preparing for its annual Japan mission and will be sending a large group of trade delegates to Japan this year to meet with buyers. New in 2019, USDBC will work with potential users of US dry beans to develop innovative new uses and applications for US dry beans, seeking to develop markets beyond the traditional use of dry beans for the manufacture of bean paste.

We will hold a seminar during 2019 in Japan to present new applications using various classes of U.S. dry beans in order to stimulate interest in new product/menu ideas. Various follow on

Another Bean based Dish

activities are planned as well.  This activity is part of the new ATP program. We will be reporting on the evolution of Japan market dynamics and keeping you informed about new opportunities throughout the year.