The Turkish food industry demonstrated its global competitiveness at FOODEX JAPAN 2026 – the 51st International Food and Beverage Exhibition held in Tokyo. Türkiye exported $337 million worth of food products to Japan in 2025, and industry representatives are now targeting exports exceeding $1 billion in the medium term.
Mehmet Ali Işık, Sustainability and Organic Products Coordinator at the Aegean Exporters’ Associations, highlighted that Japan imports over $70 billion worth of food annually, presenting significant opportunities for Turkish exporters. He noted that 30% of Türkiye’s food exports to Japan originate from the Aegean Region.
Over 400 business meetings held
A total of 49 Turkish companies participated in the fair, including 45 under national participation and 4 individual exhibitors. The four-day event attracted 73,842 visitors.
Turkish companies conducted more than 400 B2B meetings, supported by pre-arranged matchmaking programs with Japanese buyers. The Türkiye pavilion attracted strong attention with its design and location, while digital promotions, advertising campaigns and influencer collaborations enhanced product visibility.
Japan serves as a regional trade hub
Muhammet Öztürk, Chairman of the Aegean Cereals, Pulses, Oil Seeds and Products Exporters’ Association, emphasized that FOODEX Japan functions as a regional trade hub, attracting buyers not only from Japan but also from South Korea, the United States, Canada and Europe.
He noted that Turkish companies are aligning their product strategies with Japanese consumers’ expectations for high-quality and healthy products, showcasing a wide range of items from olive oil and pasta to frozen foods and chocolate.
Strong interest in Turkish cuisine
Bedri Girit, Chairman of the Aegean Fisheries and Animal Products Exporters’ Association, stated that tasting events held during the exhibition received strong interest. With contributions from Michelin-starred Chef Osman Serdaroğlu, Turkish products were adapted to Japanese culinary preferences.
Highlights included sushi and sashimi prepared with Turkish salmon and tuna, along with tastings of Turkish wine, coffee, olive oil and tea.
Girit added that $113 million of Türkiye’s $337 million food exports to Japan came from seafood, accounting for approximately 33% of the total.
Japan ranks second in olive oil exports
Emre Uygun, Chairman of the Aegean Olive and Olive Oil Exporters’ Association, stated that Japan ranks as the second-largest market after the United States for Turkish olive oil exports. Japan accounted for 9% of Türkiye’s $251 million olive oil exports in the 2024/25 season.
He added that exports to Japan are expected to reach $100 million in the short term.
Strategic engagements and institutional meetings
Beyond exhibition activities, the Turkish delegation held meetings with leading Japanese institutions, including the Japan National Aquaculture Association, the Japan Nut Association and the Japan Oilseed Processors Association. These engagements are expected to strengthen bilateral trade relations and sectoral cooperation.
Türkiye’s strong presence at FOODEX Japan 2026 highlights its growing role in Asian markets and underscores the importance of diversification in global food exports.
