Japanese seafood exports to Malaysia jump 40pc to RM130m as demand grows

Japan External Trade Organisation (Jetro) Executive Vice President Kenichi Hirano delivers his opening remarks at the Japanese Seafood Business-to-Business (B2B) Trade Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, October 26, 2026, highlighting the growth potential of Japanese seafood exports to Malaysia. — Bernama pic

First Published: Monday, 26 Oct 2026 7:30 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 26 — Japanese seafood exports to Malaysia rose by about 40 per cent in the first eight months of 2026, driven by stronger demand for premium products and growing consumer appreciation of Japanese cuisine.

Japan External Trade Organisation (Jetro) executive vice-president Kenichi Hirano said exports reached approximately ¥5 billion (RM130 million) between January and August this year, compared with the same period in 2025.

He attributed the growth to rising consumer purchasing power, expanding interest in high-quality food products and increasing familiarity with Japanese cuisine among Malaysians.

“Between January and August 2026, Japanese seafood exports to Malaysia increased by approximately 40 per cent to around five billion yen compared with the same period last year,” he said in his opening remarks at the Japanese Seafood B2B Trade Meeting Event here today.

Hirano said Malaysia remains one of the most promising markets in Asean for Japanese food exports, supported by strong consumer interest in Japanese food culture and a growing number of Malaysians travelling to Japan.

The event brought together local distributors of Japanese seafood products and food-service operators, providing a platform for business matching and networking opportunities.

Speaking to Bernama on the sidelines of the event, Hirano said Jetro expects further growth opportunities for Japanese seafood beyond Japanese restaurants, particularly among a wider range of food-service operators in Malaysia.

“Malaysia stands out among Asean markets for its strong consumer interest in Japanese food and culture,” he said.

To strengthen market access, Jetro will continue supporting Japanese small and medium enterprises by helping them participate in food-related exhibitions, business-matching programmes, and networking events that connect Japanese suppliers with Malaysian buyers.

Hirano said a weaker Japanese yen could improve the price competitiveness of Japanese food products overseas, although exchange rates are only one factor influencing purchasing decisions.

He noted that product quality, safety, authenticity, taste and culinary performance remain key considerations for both food-service operators and retail consumers. — Bernama