#Japan #Sustainable Fishing #Ehime #Akasaka Suisan #Sony Bank GATE

Supporting Sustainable Aquaculture in Japan

Akasaka Suisan, a fisheries company based in Ehime, Japan, takes a significant step towards sustainable aquaculture with its innovative approach to farming yellowtails and other fish. Established in 1953, this pioneering company has long focused on not just its growth but also on preserving marine resources through sustainable practices. The company is now introducing a new crowdfunding initiative in collaboration with Sony Bank GATE, which is set to launch on September 30, 2025.

A Pioneering Financial Initiative

For the first time in Ehime, Akasaka Suisan has partnered with Sony Bank to create an investment-based crowdfunding opportunity called Sony Bank GATE. This platform aims to connect businesses actively solving social challenges with investors wanting to contribute to a sustainable future. Investors can support Akasaka Suisan with a minimum contribution of 10,000 yen, aiming for a total target of 10,000,000 yen.

As a unique incentive, contributors will receive an exclusive NFT of Tai Messhi (yellowtail rice) presented via Sony Bank CONNECT. The company aims to create not just financial growth but also a broader awareness of sustainable practices in aquaculture through such initiatives.

Cutting-edge Techniques in Aquaculture

Akasaka Suisan has been at the forefront of innovation, especially in its use of fish-free feed, which has made waves in the aquaculture industry. Traditionally, aquaculture relies heavily on fishmeal made from small fish, a finite resource that poses environmental challenges. Instead, Akasaka Suisan has successfully developed fishmeal-free feeding practices utilizing plant-based proteins. This not only sustains delicious yellowtail farming but also aligns with environmental stewardship and sustainability objectives.

Under the leadership of Ryutaro Akasaka, the third-generation director, the company is leveraging technology such as AI and IoT to implement these sustainable practices and monitor their fish farming operations more effectively.

Expanding the Reach of Yellowtail

In a bid to boost the popularity of yellowtail, Akasaka Suisan plans to open a specialist restaurant, Tai Meshi Akasaka, in Tachikawa, Tokyo in October 2025. This establishment will not only highlight the unique flavors of yellowtail but also serve as a platform to educate guests about sustainable practices in aquaculture. The restaurant aims to bring awareness to the importance of sustainability in the seafood industry, thereby inspiring more consumers to make eco-conscious choices.

Conclusion

Sony Bank’s vision is to create a sustainable society, and their new GATE platform reflects this goal by bridging the gap between socially responsible businesses and investors. Through initiatives like those implemented by Akasaka Suisan, the hope is that more people will become involved in sustainable practices, paving the way for a healthier planet.

As we move towards a more sustainable future, the collaboration between Akasaka Suisan and Sony Bank levels the playing field for small businesses aiming to make a difference and transform the aquaculture landscape in Japan. By getting involved with such initiatives, investors not only support innovative practices but can also directly contribute to the conservation of marine resources and the promotion of sustainable dining experiences.