Japanese aquaculture needs to increase export sales for the continuance of the industry. As Seriola commands about 60% of the market the focus must be on this species. Export can be complicated, a well thought out plan is necessary to avoid catastrophe.
Targeted Increase Export Sales
A fictional Japanese aquaculture company targeted an increase in export sales to North America. The sales division designed new marketing materials and hired an English capable salesperson, new buyers in Boston and Chicago were found. The farm increased stocking to fill the orders and the processing plant made ready for the larger harvest. No unusual problems occurred during growout however, as with every year disease and infections arose. They were resolved following Japanese approved procedures. The fish were filleted, frozen, and packaged to customer requirements. Several containers were shipped to the United States.
Port Inspection
There were no concerns over port inspection as the farm operates to Japan standards and the processing plant is HACCP approved. However, the pharmaceuticals used to control infections were not approved by the US and the cargoes were rejected. The company lost a sizable investment in product and buyer credibility. It will be difficult for them to reenter the market.
Japanese Seriola Production
Annually about 140,000 tons of Seriola are raised in Japan for domestic consumption. Another 7,000 tons or so are exported mostly to North America. The exported tonnage is gradually increasing but it is unlikely to increase enough to make Japanese farms economically sustainable.
Potential of Japanese Seriola
There is high potential for Seriola, it has a short grow out period and can be prepared a variety of ways. Seriola is high in Omega oils and can be compared to salmon in many ways. The US imports about 400,000 tons of salmon annually and consumption of seafood is expected to grow as more Americans eat fish. Unfortunately, Japanese Seriola is not competitive as the industry is small and has not scaled up. Operations are inefficient and costly; few farms have taken international certification that most buyers require.
The Challenge
The Japanese market is shrinking due to an aging and declining population. The industry also faces changing preferences of young people for beef over fish. The future of Japan’s Seriola industry is export and the single largest export market is North America. Seriola farms in other markets have already obtained international certification, scaled up production, and follow US importing laws. Japanese farms need to be aware of and adjust to overseas requirements or find means to make those requirements compatible with Japanese regulations to keep the industry viable.