UK farmers gain access to £1.4bn Japanese organic market
British organic producers have gained access to Japan’s £1.4 billion organic market after a UK trade deal slashed red tape and removed a key export barrier.
The deal, which came into force today (1 April), recognises UK and Japanese organic livestock standards as equivalent, meaning exporters now need only one UK certification to sell into both markets.
The move opens the door to one of Asia’s fastest-growing organic sectors, where demand for premium products is rising and government policy is actively encouraging consumption.
Among those set to benefit is Welsh dairy co-operative Calon Wen, which is already expanding into Asian markets and now targeting opportunities in Japan.
Business development and sales manager Stuart McNally described the deal as “a very welcome breakthrough”, saying it opens opportunities previously out of reach.
“This equivalency with Japan allows us to pursue opportunities previously out of reach,” he said, adding it could unlock “substantial trade annually” while supporting family farms.
Ministers said the deal would reduce costs and bureaucracy for exporters, while boosting the global reach of British produce.
Food Security Minister Dame Angela Eagle said UK farmers “set the gold standard for quality” and that the deal would connect them with Japanese consumers seeking premium organic products.
“This arrangement tears down barriers and gives them access to Japanese consumers who are increasingly seeking out the very best organic products the world has to offer,” she said.
Japan is the second largest organic market in Asia after China, valued at around £1.4 billion and expanding rapidly.
Industry estimates suggest the deal could generate millions of pounds in additional trade each year, particularly for meat and dairy exporters.
The UK already exports a range of organic goods to Japan, including tea, cereals and juices, while importing products such as organic soy sauce, noodles and green tea.
Even so, exporters will still need to navigate market competition and build relationships in a highly quality-driven and competitive retail environment.
The deal builds on earlier UK-Japan cooperation, including a 2025 agreement covering organic alcoholic drinks, and forms part of a wider strategy to expand agricultural exports.
The UK organic sector continues to grow, reaching a retail value of £3.9 billion in 2025, up 4.2% year-on-year, with key export markets including the EU, US and South Korea.
The deal also follows recent progress in the livestock sector, including expanded beef export quotas and new genetics market access across multiple regions.
