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REASELS: Transforming Food Exports with AI

In a significant milestone for Japan's food export sector, REASELS, a startup based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has been accepted into the X-HUB TOKYO OUTBOUND PROGRAM's New York course. This initiative, organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, aims to accelerate the development of practical AI solutions tailored for food exports. REASELS seeks to construct an international food export infrastructure that addresses the challenges faced by food manufacturers worldwide, including language barriers, regulations, and document preparation.

Overview of the Food Export Market

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan's exports of agricultural and food products are projected to reach a record high of 1.54 trillion yen in 2024, marking a 3.7% increase from the previous year. However, the goal of reaching 2 trillion yen by 2025 poses an uphill challenge for many small and medium-sized food manufacturers, who encounter significant barriers to entry in the global marketplace.

The Burden of Export Process

Many small food manufacturers often hesitate to engage in export activities due to the time-consuming nature of document preparation required for international buyers. For each product, it may take an average of 3 to 4 hours to compile necessary documentation, and the potential for errors increases without specialized knowledge. Additionally, the costs associated with creating labels for international markets can range from tens of thousands to over 100,000 yen per product. The requirement to tailor these documents to specific countries and buyers creates further complications, making this process one of the principal barriers preventing companies from engaging in international trade.

Utilizing Generative AI for Solutions

To tackle these challenges, REASELS leverages generative AI technology to automate the creation of sales materials and specifications with just one click. This tool aims to significantly reduce the practical burdens associated with international food sales by handling everything from export regulation checks to the preparation of product specifications in formats requested by foreign buyers.

Exploring Challenges in New York

Participation in the X-HUB TOKYO New York course offers REASELS a unique opportunity to engage with American food trading companies and retailers directly. Through interactions with local food buyers in New York, REASELS aims to identify common challenges shared by both Japanese and international parties. Insights gained from these discussions will be integrated into the company's ongoing product development, reinforcing its commitment to becoming a global standard for food export infrastructure rather than just a tool for improving sales efficiency.

Track Record of International Support and Future Vision

REASELS has previously supported Japanese food brands in their entry into the U.S. market, gaining valuable insights through instances of local store operations and negotiations. By capitalizing on this experience, the company aims to realistically introduce generative AI into food exports and international sales, thereby enhancing the export capacity of Japan's food industry as a whole.

Comment from Yuka Yamaguchi, CEO

Yuka Yamaguchi, CEO of REASELS, expressed her honor at being selected for the X-HUB TOKYO OUTBOUND PROGRAM, highlighting the importance of creating a DX product tailored for food exports. Having worked with various Japanese food brands aiming to enter the American market, she has witnessed firsthand how flavor and quality can be globally recognized, yet the complexities of trade negotiations and regulatory compliance present substantial hurdles. Many brands, especially small and craft producers, find these obstacles to be daunting.

She stated, 'This selection indicates the recognition and potential of solutions stemming from real-world challenges faced on the ground.' Furthermore, Yamaguchi emphasized the importance of evolving their product into a global solution, stating that the company strives to challenge itself in delivering Japanese products worldwide. Through their approach, REASELS aims to establish a world where excellent products are appreciated beyond borders, particularly addressing the deep-rooted fears faced by Japanese companies due to language barriers and geographical isolation.

About the X-HUB TOKYO OUTBOUND PROGRAM

The OUTBOUND PROGRAM is a project designed to support the international expansion of Tokyo-based startup companies aspiring to operate globally. Collaborating with global accelerators knowledgeable in regional ecosystems, the program offers boot camps and mentoring, as well as opportunities for partnerships with business collaborators and funding from investors.

For more details on the X-HUB TOKYO program, visit their official website: X-HUB TOKYO.

About REASELS

Founded in February 2023, REASELS is dedicated to delivering Japan's craftsmanship and refined quality to the global market. By developing DX solutions that facilitate the overseas expansion of Japanese food brands, REASELS aims to provide a seamless integration of these products into international markets. With a focus on enhancing the international competitiveness of Japan’s food industry, REASELS is committed to creating a future where all food producers can challenge themselves beyond borders. Their website can be found at: REASELS.