SCOTTISH BEEF SHIPPED TO JAPAN FOR FIRST TIME IN 23 YEARS

Scottish beef producers made their first export to Japan since the lifting of a 23-year ban in January 2019. West Lothian-based processor AK Stoddart’s exported the country’s first batch of beef, which arrived in Japan this week. The meat arrival was celebrated at an official showcase event organised by Scottish Development International and Quality Meat Scotland as part of Rugby World Cup 2019 celebrations. Japanese retailers and food importers attended and expressed interest in dealing with Scotch beef. The Japan market is worth GBP127 million to UK farmers over the next five years. This article would outline the plans and market expectations of the Scottish exporters and level of interest among Japanese retailers and importers, giving an overview of the potential of Scotch beef in Japan.  The event is the latest in efforts by the Scotch Beef industry to boost awareness of the product in Japan ahead of the export launch. Scotch beef became Scottish Rugby’s Official Healthy Eating Partner in January 2019 and Quality Meat Scotland has been delivering events with Scottish Rugby over the year, including an initiative to promote healthy eating.