The surge in fresh vegetable prices is pushing Japanese retail stores to expand the range of frozen products. In 2018, Japan's frozen vegetable imports have reached a record high for two consecutive years.
According to data released by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in Japan, imports in 2018 increased by 4% over the previous year to 1.05 million tons, higher than the record high in 2017 (1.01 million tons), and the growth rate compared with 10 years ago reached 36%.
According to the Nikkei Chinese website, China is Japan's leading supplier of frozen vegetables by country, with exports to Japan accounting for nearly half of its total imports, followed by the United States. In terms of categories, spinach increased by 14% over the previous year, and broccoli increased by 18%. In the past 10 years, they have achieved more than double growth.
Chinese agricultural products are increasing in the use of pesticides that comply with Japanese standards. The Japan Frozen Food Association said consumer concerns about safety are diminishing.
In 2003, Chinese vegetables were left behind due to pesticide residues in frozen spinach, and Japan began to develop other supplying areas such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Today, Japan ’s imports from China have doubled in 2003.
Frozen vegetables are products that are not needed, and are shipped after heat treatment. They have the advantages of easy storage and simple cooking. They help the catering industry, which is troubled by labor shortage, simplify the production process and reduce the workload of employees, so the demand is constant. Expansion and utilization are becoming increasingly prominent.
Japanese experts have stated in recent years that due to China's geographical advantages and the stable quality of frozen vegetable products, which can be supplied in large quantities all year round, it is difficult for Japan to find the same substitute country. It is recommended that Chinese enterprises can develop more high-value-added products for hospitals and elderly care institutions.
Frozen vegetables Manufacturers