According to data presented in a report on the development of trade cooperation between the two countries, Uzbekistan has become one of the top five suppliers of prunes to Japan and is among the top ten exporters of raisins to the Japanese market.
To increase supply volumes, representatives of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Japan held a meeting in Osaka with Kengo Sugie, CEO of the Japanese company Kurosimo Inc.
Kurosimo Inc. imports black raisins, almonds, and walnuts from Uzbekistan, processes these products, and sells them in Japan under the brand name Gift from Silk Road. This product is available at Kintetsu Department Store, one of Japan's largest retail chains, and has attracted consumer interest, as noted by the meeting participants.
Japanese Market Requirements
The discussion also covered the requirements of the Japanese market for imported food products. Specifically, suppliers must comply with restrictions on pesticide residues within Japan's Positive List System. Laboratory tests are conducted depending on the type of product to check for pesticide residues, mycotoxins, microbiological indicators, and food additives.
Fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and certain types of plant products fall under phytosanitary standards, which include issuing relevant certificates and conducting import inspections. Furthermore, Japanese legislation establishes rules for packaging and labeling. Labels in Japanese must contain the product name, ingredients, allergen information, storage conditions, expiration date, country of origin, and importer details.
In accordance with Japan's Food Sanitation Act, notification must be submitted for every commercial import of food products. The goal of the discussions was to ensure that Uzbek products comply with Japanese regulations and to further expand supplies to the country's market.
