Key Facts
• August 24 marks two years since treated water release from Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant.
• China resumed imports from 37 Japanese prefectures, excluding 10 like Fukushima and Miyagi.
• Hokkaido scallop exports to the U.S. doubled post-ban but face 15% tariffs and delays.
• Iwate’s fish exports to Africa doubled to 2,500 tons in 2025, despite higher costs.
• Miyagi’s seafood export value dropped by ¥5.6 billion to ¥9.7 billion post-ban.
• Fukushima’s flounder prices rose to ¥1,479/kg in 2024, exceeding pre-release levels.
• Local initiatives in Fukushima aim to export seafood to the Middle East and Asia by 2026.
Summary
Two years after the release of treated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant, Japan’s seafood industry faces mixed outcomes. While China resumed imports from 37 prefectures, bans remain on 10, including Fukushima and Miyagi. Hokkaido scallop producers, heavily reliant on exports, struggle with U.S. tariffs and delays but hope for China’s market reopening. Iwate expanded exports to Africa, doubling volumes despite higher costs. Miyagi, facing a ¥5.6 billion export loss, seeks new markets in the U.S., Southeast Asia, and Mexico. Fukushima’s seafood prices have risen, supported by domestic buyers, while local initiatives target Middle Eastern and Asian markets. Industry stakeholders remain hopeful but cautious about future trade prospects.
