Key Facts
• Niigata’s agricultural and fishery exports hit a record ¥6.2 billion in 2024.
• Nishikigoi accounted for 62.9% and rice for 36.3% of total exports.
• Nishikigoi exports rose 18.2% year-on-year to ¥3.9 billion.
• Half of Nishikigoi exports were to East and Southeast Asia.
• Transporting live Nishikigoi is limited to 48 hours, complicating long-distance exports.
• Niigata is developing technology to extend transport time for Nishikigoi.
• Rice exports increased 30.1% to ¥2.25 billion, with 9,660 tons exported.
• Top rice export destinations: U.S. (17.5%), Hong Kong (16.3%), Singapore (15.6%).
• Niigata aims to reach ¥10 billion in exports by 2032, focusing on Nishikigoi and rice.
• Additional ¥400 million targeted from pears, Le Lectier pears, and enoki mushrooms.
Summary
Niigata Prefecture achieved a record ¥6.2 billion in agricultural and fishery exports in 2024, driven by strong demand for Nishikigoi and rice, alongside favorable exchange rates. Nishikigoi exports, which make up 62.9% of the total, grew 18.2% year-on-year to ¥3.9 billion, with East and Southeast Asia as key markets. However, the 48-hour limit for transporting live Nishikigoi poses challenges for distant exports, prompting research into extending transport times. Rice exports also surged 30.1% to ¥2.25 billion, with the U.S., Hong Kong, and Singapore as top destinations. Niigata aims to boost exports to ¥10 billion by 2032, focusing on Nishikigoi, rice, and other products like pears and enoki mushrooms.
