Taiwanese rice exports to Japan in 2025. This marks a major increase. From 2020 to 2024, Taiwan exported about 3,500 tonnes each year.However, during the first four months of 2025, exports already reached 5,136 tonnes. This jump reflects rising demand and market shifts.
Rice prices in Japan have doubled within just four months. A five-kilogram pack now sells for NT$870, up from NT$441.Meanwhile, Taiwanese rice remains affordable at NT$40 per kilogram. This pricing advantage helps attract Japanese importers.Although both countries grow the same japonica variety, Taiwanese rice offers better value. As a result, buyers in Japan are shifting preferences.
Taiwan has also improved quality standards to gain trust in foreign markets. For example, growers strictly control fertilizer and pesticide use.These improvements helped the “Tainan No. 11” variety meet Japan’s pesticide standards. Taiwanese producers shipped 2,400 tonnes of this rice to Japan in September.Additionally, they sent this rice to Singapore and Australia, expanding market reach. Taiwan continues to gain momentum in global rice trade.
Japan enforces tough restrictions on rice imports. Each year, it allows 770,000 tonnes of rice into the country. The government buys 670,000 tonnes for national reserves.That leaves only 100,000 tonnes for private importers under a zero-tariff quota. Most of this quota goes to the US and Australia.
Therefore, Taiwan must compete for a small share of the remaining quota. Despite this, Taiwanese rice exports to Japan continue rising.Taiwanese rice has entered institutional kitchens across Japan. It now appears in school cafeterias, hospitals, and elderly care facilities.In addition, it’s increasingly available in supermarkets, gaining visibility among everyday consumers.To boost outreach, Taiwan’s Okura Rice Shop formed a new alliance. It teamed up with three Japanese food suppliers.
Their partnership aims to expand distribution and increase brand recognition in Japan.The Ministry of Agriculture continues to support export growth through strategic promotion.Officials believe the current demand surge and pricing trends will keep favoring Taiwanese rice exports to Japan.In conclusion, Taiwan is using price, quality, and smart partnerships to grow its rice exports.
