Accelerating GX in Agriculture: Insights from the 4th Research Conference

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in Japan is taking significant strides to advance its Green Food System Strategy and tackle pressing environmental challenges. On January 9, 2024, a pivotal event will unfold in the capital, marking the 4th session of the "Research Conference on Accelerating GX in the Food, Agriculture, and Fisheries Sector."

Background and Context

Since the establishment of the Green Food System Strategy, substantial progress has been made in reducing environmental impact. However, recent climate data revealed that 2024 witnessed the highest recorded global average temperature, raising alarms about its effects on agricultural production in Japan due to heat and extremes. In this context of cross-sectoral challenges posed by climate change, enhancing sustainability in the food and agricultural sectors has become paramount.

The government aims to advance the GX initiatives through a focus on the acceleration of the Green Strategy. Furthermore, a new "Basic Plan for Food, Agriculture, and Rural Areas" set to be approved on April 11, 2024, outlines key strategies intended for concentrated promotion leading up to 2030, identified as the "Green Acceleration GX Plan."

To achieve these GX objectives in the food and agricultural sector, the Research Conference has been established. This initiative aims to grasp the real-world conditions impacting production sectors, identify crucial short-term issues, and determine effective measures that can be implemented. The conference will be a platform for gathering insights and opinions from diverse stakeholders involved in food systems across Japan.

Event Overview

The upcoming session on January 9 will take place from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The central topic for discussion will be the expansion of organic farming practices, a critical component of sustainable agriculture. Key participants include:

- Toshihiro Nakajima, Representative of Toyooka Organic Works
- Takeshi Nakamori, President of Nakamori Agricultural Co., Ltd.
- Kazuma Nishitsuji, President of My Farm Co., Ltd.
- Tetsuharu Hikida from the Industrial Tourism Department of Hitachi-Omiya City

It is important to note that this conference is closed to the public; however, documents and meeting summaries will be made available online following the event. Additionally, previous materials and summaries are accessible at the designated URL: MAFF Green Strategies.

The importance of such gatherings cannot be overstated as they facilitate valuable discussions that pave the way forward in addressing the sustainability challenges facing the agricultural sector. The participants aim to enhance collaboration, share best practices, and put forward innovative solutions that align with the pressing need for sustainable food production methods in Japan.

As the world continues to grapple with the realities of climate change, the role of agriculture in providing solutions will be more significant than ever. This conference not only underlines Japan's commitment to improving its agricultural practices but also its dedication to global environmental efforts. The outcomes from this session are anticipated to play a critical role in shaping the future of Japan's agricultural landscape.