Scottish producers are coming together for the first time this week to showcase Scottish seafoods at the Japanese Seafood Expo.
“We know there is a huge appetite in Japan and across Asia for the exquisite seafood that we produce in Scotland’s pristine waters," said Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Fisheries and Food, Richard Lochhead. "This market has been identified as a top priority in the Scotland Food & Drink Export Plan and so it is fantastic to see Scottish producers will have such a strong presence at this premier seafood showcase."
Scottish companies attending the Expo include Shetland Catch Ltd, Lunar Freezing & Cold Storage Co Ltd, The Scottish Salmon Company, St James’ Smokehouse, Denholm Seafoods Ltd, Burgons of Eyemouth/The Blue Sea Food Company, Scottish Fisherman’s Organisation, and Northbay Pelagic Limited.
Graham Young, managing director of Seafood Scotland, delivery partner for Seafish and member of the Scottish Seafood Collaborative Group, commented: “Japan is such an important market for the Scottish seafood industry. Not only is it a massive consumer of seafood, but it is also a trend setting nation for food culture across Asia and as such, it is important that Scottish seafood is on their radar, and they are aware of the world-class product we can export. The Japanese look for the highest quality, and Scotland can certainly deliver.”
Scottish food and drink exports to Japan have increased by 226% between 2007 and 2012 (HMRC Regional Trade Statistics and Overseas Trade Statistics), and are valued at £91m.
Both Scottish and Japanese chefs will be working hard with the delegation to prepare their products both in western and Scottish culinary styles, but also to demonstrate how Scottish product can be used for more traditional Japanese cuisine.
The Japanese Seafood Expo is held from 20 to 22 August in Tokyo.
