The GOHAN Project's Second Meeting: Expanding Japanese Rice Exports

The GOHAN Project's Second Meeting: A Step Toward Expanding Japanese Rice Exports

On March 3rd, 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) of Japan will host the second meeting of the GOHAN Project. This initiative primarily aims to enhance the export of Japanese rice and rice products through strategic discussions involving various stakeholders. The meeting is positioned as a pivotal event, focusing on creating a concerted effort to unlock the potential of Japanese rice in international markets.

Overview of the GOHAN Project

The GOHAN Project was established with the goal of advancing Japan's food security by promoting rice production that aligns with demand, while also tapping into new markets for rice-based products. As the world increasingly recognizes the culinary value of Japanese rice, it becomes crucial to boost its market by fostering both domestic and international demand. Through expanding exports and exploring new uses of rice, such as rice flour, the project endeavors to create and stimulate demand for rice in broader markets.

The second meeting builds upon the discussions from the first meeting, which took place in December 2025. This initial gathering examined the challenges and solutions related to sushi rice, restaurant offerings, packaged rice, and more, highlighting the necessity of strategic collaboration among producers, exporters, and consumers.

At the upcoming meeting, discussions will specifically address the distinct characteristics of the U.S. market, exploring tailored strategies that can enhance the market presence of Japanese rice products in the region. Engaging with key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, participants will explore practical solutions and innovative approaches to overcome existing barriers in rice exports.

Meeting Details

Date and Time

- Date: March 3rd, 2026 (Tuesday)
- Time: Starting at 10 AM (JST)

Location

- Venue: Public-Private Co-Creation Hub (with web participation)
- Address: 3rd Floor Isomura Building, 1-1-3 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Participants

The array of organizations expected to attend reflects the collaborative spirit of this initiative:

- Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF)
- Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI)
- Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
- Japan Food Export Promotion Center
- All Japan Rice Association
- Rice-related Food Export Promotion Council
- 19 other related business entities and groups

By gathering these diverse stakeholders, the GOHAN Project aims to create a platform for shared understanding and collaborative efforts in exporting Japanese rice and its by-products.

Agenda Topics

The meeting will focus on two main agenda items:
1. Sharing insights on the characteristics of the U.S. market for rice and discussing implementable strategies and case studies.
2. Facilitating an open exchange of ideas among participants to cultivate innovative solutions.

Media Coverage

For journalists wishing to cover the meeting, note that media access will be restricted to the beginning portion only. Interested reporters are required to contact the relevant offices by 5 PM on March 2nd to confirm their attendance. At the venue, identification, such as a press pass, will be necessary for entry.

This meeting promises to be a significant step toward not only enhancing the presence of Japanese rice in international markets but also fostering a stronger sense of community among stakeholders working toward a common goal: the successful export of quality Japanese rice.