Japan News Update #61 (June 2024)
Stay updated on the latest agricultural news in Japan, that we publish every month.
by Yuki Sano
Global warming and Japanese agricultural production
The market price for domestic pork is at a record high due to the outbreak of swine fever at the end of May and a reduction in the number of animals shipped due to the hot weather. Demand for domestic pigmeat is strong, partly due to rising import prices, and the number of pigs shipped in June is forecast to be down 1.4% year-on-year. Imports fell by 10% year-on-year in April. It will take time for shipments to recover, and high prices are expected to continue into the summer demand season.
Source: Record high domestic pork market prices due to heat and swine fever
Due to climate change, Hokkaido may see increased crop harvests. Warmer Hokkaido may boost rice and fruit yields, especially benefiting the wine industry, with vineyard areas set to expand. However, hotter conditions and unstable weather risk crop quality and quantity. Wheat, potato, and sugar beet yields may decline, while grape production could rise. Adaptation strategies, including advanced technology and new crop varieties, are essential for future agricultural sustainability.
Source: Hokkaido's farmers look for a silver lining to climate change disruption
Japan’s unique approach to helping reduce methane emissions in the Asian region
This summer, Japan will launch its first agricultural-sector emission trading project with the Philippines and Vietnam, using the Joint Crediting Mechanism. The project will see Japan providing the Philippines and Vietnam with technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in exchange for credits for the emissions cut. Japan aims to expand this scheme to more Asian countries, supporting greenhouse gas reduction and carbon neutrality goals.
Source: Japan To Extend Emissions Reduction Trading Projects To Agricultural Sector; Will Offer Intermittent Irrigation Method to Philippines, Vietnam; Japan, Philippines to share carbon credits by cutting methane from rice farming
New apple variety suitable for robot harvesting
The National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO) developed Benitsurugi, a new columnar apple variety. This mid-season variety grows upright, improving work efficiency and allowing for mechanical harvesting. Developed over 30 years, Benitsurugi is Japan's first columnar apple for raw consumption, comparable to major varieties in quality. Commercial cultivation starts in 1-2 years.
Source: New columnar apple variety developed in Japan
Japan’s serious food security issues
Japan's government and trading companies are strategizing to secure stable food imports amid global competition. Agriculture Minister Sakamoto emphasized the challenges of importing affordable food and pledged support for building grain storage facilities in exporting countries. Trading firms requested official aid for infrastructure and improved export rules.