Explore the Japanese seafood market

With a population of more than 126 million, Japan is a market with large import and consumption demand for fish and processed fish products, shrimp, eel and more. Vietnam, meanwhile, is considered strong in exactly those items and well able to supply the Japanese market. Shrimp is an important, high-value item among Vietnamese seafood products sold to Japan.

Contact us

An overview of the Japanese seafood market

  • Japan is the world's third largest import market, consuming around 10 million tonnes of seafood a year, three quarters of which comes from imports.

  • Import value stood at USD 15 billion in 2023, with a forecast compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 1.7% to 2028.

  • The five main exporters into Japan: China, Chile, Russia, the United States and Vietnam.

Share of imports into Japan

  • 18%
  • 9.2%
  • 8.6%
  • 8.3%
  • 10%

Top seafood products favoured in the Japanese market

In the first and second quarters of 2023, Japan became Vietnam's largest seafood export market, overtaking the United States with export value of USD 582 million. (Japan's import value in 2023 was USD 1.63 billion.)

The main seafood products exported to Japan are sea fish, squid, octopus, shrimp and tuna. Vietnam plays a leading role in supplying deeply processed shrimp products to the Japanese market.

  • Shrimp Lobster, farmed and commercial shrimp, other shrimp varieties
  • Mackerel
  • Tuna
  • Squid & octopus

Consumption trends in the market

  • Lower consumption of traditional seafood, since it is harder to prepare than other meats.
  • Higher consumption of ready-prepared seafood, to suit busier lifestyles.
  • A focus on sustainability, certified by international organisations.
  • Rising consumption of seafood in small packs.
The relationship between Vietnam and Japan is not merely economic and trade cooperation — it is a sincere friendship built on trust, understanding and respect.
Mr Tran Quang Huy Director General of the Asia Market Department, Ministry of Industry and Trade

Our reach

  • A rich data source of more than 5 million Japanese businesses, including over 1,000 importers and distributors.

  • Automatically find leadership contact points at ANY Japanese company.

  • Manage leads, opportunities and prospects on a single platform.

A complete growth solution for seafood businesses

  • Marketing strategy consulting

    Adjusting segmentation, targeting and positioning specifically for the Japanese market.

  • Sales network development

    A tailored approach to building effective websites and landing pages that appeal to Japanese aesthetics and business culture.

  • Methodology and process development for B2B growth

    Specialised processes and methods suited to the character of Japanese business.

  • Technology and tools

    Recommending and providing technology solutions such as SFA and CRM, optimised for the Japanese market.

  • Training and methodology transfer

    Comprehensive training programmes designed to overcome cultural and language barriers.

Why choose our solution

  • Maximum saving of company resources: time, cost and people.
  • Simplify the process of finding and reaching prospects.
  • Seize opportunities early and bring technology into your business.
  • Advice and support from leading, dedicated experts.

Contact us

We are glad to answer your questions and to help you explore the opportunity of exporting seafood to the Japanese market.

Connect now