Japan is facing one of the most acute labour shortages in the developed world—and the food sector is feeling it. In response, the country is actively investing in automation, predictive quality control, and production technologies that can improve efficiency. Add to that a broad and growing push for sustainability, and you have a market that aligns well with Canadian innovation strengths.
Opportunities are particularly strong in areas like advanced food manufacturing tech, energy-efficient processing systems, smart packaging, and shelf-life extension. Japan is also prioritizing food safety and digital traceability, with a strong appetite for reliable, compliant systems.
At the same time, Japan’s business culture is relationship-driven and risk-averse. Regulatory compliance is rigorous, and sales cycles can be long. Local partners—especially those with experience bringing foreign tech into Japanese markets—are essential.