Scottish fish farmers target Tokyo

The companies are part of a delegation organised by Seafood Scotland. It is the first time Marine Harvest has attended as part of a larger delegation.

Other companies in the delegation include North Uist-based Hebridean Smokehouse, as well as fishing companies.

Darren Allan, international commercial manager at Dawnfresh said: “Asia, and in particular Japan, is one of the largest consumers of seafood in the world appreciating high quality, sustainable products. 

“Scottish fish is widely renowned as some of the best in the world for both quality and flavour. As one of Scotland’s most premium, fully accredited seafood producers we see the show as an excellent opportunity to showcase our fantastic range of raw and smoked trout products as well as our handcrafted, marinated, MSC-certified herring.”

Robbie Kettle, account manager for Marine Harvest Scotland, said: “We are looking forward to meeting existing and new customers in Tokyo.”

He said the firm’s world-class Scottish salmon were a perfect fit for the high-quality Japanese market and the discerning Japanese consumer. 

“High service level and consistent 52-week supply go hand in hand with the opportunity to further differentiate and increase the fresh salmon market in Japan,” said Kettle.

Natalie Bell, trade marketing manager for Europe, Middle East and Asia at Seafood Scotland, said: “Japan is a strategically important market for the seafood industry. Its famously strong fish-eating culture and a market that demands increasing levels of quality, traceability and sustainability, makes Japan an ideal match for Scottish seafood is the ideal match for the market. 

“Moreover, where Japan leads the rest of Asia generally follows.  As the cultural and foodie trend-setter for the region, buy-in from Japan is crucial for Scottish fishermen and producers. 

“The Japan Seafood Expo represents a critical opportunity for Scottish company representatives, who will do solid deals over tastings and dinners, contributing to a real boost for the Scottish industry.” 

Both Scottish and Japanese chefs will be working with the delegation to prepare their products in western culinary styles, but also to demonstrate how Scottish product can be used for more traditional Japanese cuisine. 

In addition to attending the Expo, the Scottish contingent is hosting a ‘Taste of Scotland’ Seafood reception at the British Embassy in Tokyo, to form new ties with buyers and chefs that might include Scottish seafood on their menus.  

The Japan Seafood Expo 2018 will be attended by a host of international trade buyers among the 35,000 visitors expected at the Tokyo show.