Japan News Update #56 (January 2024)

Japanese Agriculture Ministry Expands Scope: IP Rights and Broccoli Subsidies

Japan's agriculture ministry plans to leverage intellectual property rights to boost profits from luxury fruits abroad. Traditionally, Japan used these rights to prevent seed smuggling. The ministry and research organizations will establish a body to manage and protect plant breeders' rights, licensing to overseas partners and collecting royalties. This strategy aims to expand exports, protect farmers from foreign competition, and curb intellectual property violations.

Source: Japan to Use Property Rights to Profit from Farm Products Overseas

Broccoli will join the agriculture ministry’s list of important "designated vegetables" consumed in mass quantities in the country, the first addition since 1974. Currently, 14 vegetables are on the list, and the ministry will add broccoli from fiscal 2026. Broccoli growers benefit from higher subsidies to ensure stable production amid price fluctuations. Broccoli shipments surged by 28% from 2012 to 2022, reflecting increased household purchases.

Source: Broccoli to be ‘Designated Vegetable’ in Japan; First Addition in 50 Years

Japan's Dietary Puzzle: Health vs. Carbon Footprint

The Japanese diet, rich in plant-based foods, may seem less carbon-intensive than Western diets. However, its emissions are complicated by dietary shifts and cultural influences. According to Minami Sugimoto, assistant professor of nutritional epidemiology at Toho University in Tokyo, her research suggests that healthier diets in Japan may have higher emissions. To achieve balance, experts propose increasing whole grains, reducing beef and pork consumption, and focusing on fiber intake, aiming for a 10% emissions cut as an initial step.

Source: The complicated balance between health and climate in the Japanese diet

Innovative Solutions in Japan's Labor Shortage Crisis

Japan's aging population profoundly affects its workforce, leading to labor shortages and prompting innovative solutions like robot ducks by Kyoto-based robot maker Tmsuk, reducing the necessary workforce by up to 95%. Consequently, Japanese retailers, including convenience stores like Lawson's, must scale back hours and services. As part of a trial, Lawson's deploys avatars developed by Avita, enabling remote operation to cover night shifts and rural areas.

Source: Avatars, robots and AI: Japan turns to innovation to tackle labour crisis