Globalization of the agricultural sector of the economy is being promoted and importing fruits and vegetables is significantly increasing. Ironically, Japanese agricultural products are not seen much in other countries. However, Korean agricultural products are getting attention in the global market. I flew to Korea to see what was really going on there.
South Korea has built strategic trade networks like FTA and EPA with a lot of nations and regions including major economies such as the United States, The European Union and ASEAN nations. The country now depends on exporting business for much of its economy. Therefore, not only industrial products like cars, smartphones, or home appliances, but agricultural products are also available for exporting. Strawberries, mini tomatoes, sweet peppers, and Korean mushrooms are popular worldwide.
According to JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization), there are some organizations like Japan Agricultural Cooperatives who are gathering agricultural products from domestic companies and exporting them to the world. On the other hand, there are also agricultural producers or companies that make contracts with importers directly to export their products. Therefore, the producer can appeal and push their delicious products actively, and can also have an opportunity to negotiate with them and to hold exhibitions containing samples. They are making an effort for branding.
Corrugated open top trays for container transportation based on US & European standards were used at fruit and vegetable markets that I visited in Korea. These trays were piled up to about two meters high. Upgraded high quality decorative print and photograph print were applied to them as well (see the photo).
After returning home, I heard at my usual vegetable store that the supplies of paprika and king brown mushroom from South Korea are increasing rapidly. Now is the time for Japanese agricultural products to make their world debut. A lot of them taste very delicious and have a good chance to achieve success in the global market.
The corrugated box manufacturers must be great supporters of this attempt. Therefore, let’s work together to promote exports and get this done.
Corrugated open top trays with high quality decorative print
