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The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in Vientiane, successfully hosted a seminar on October 3, 2025, to introduce and certify the Japanese Food Supporter program. This initiative aims to recognize restaurants and retailers that actively use and promote Japanese ingredients and alcoholic beverages.
(KPL) The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in Vientiane, successfully hosted a seminar on October 3, 2025, to introduce and certify the Japanese Food Supporter program. This initiative aims to recognize restaurants and retailers that actively use and promote Japanese ingredients and alcoholic beverages.
The event saw participation from 42 individuals representing 21 companies, demonstrating strong interest from the Lao business community in Japanese food products.
Ms. OKAMOTO Yuko, the official in charge of the program from JETRO's Tokyo headquarters, shared impressive global statistics: As of August 31, 2025, there are 4,970 certified Japanese Food Supporter stores across 69 countries. Notably, Laos ranks highly with 46 certified stores, placing it at 16th globally.
New Certification and Focus on Japanese Ingredients
A key highlight of the seminar was the official certification of Kafepa’ Anu as a new Japanese Food Supporter, acknowledging its commitment to using Japanese ingredients in its food and beverage offerings.
The event also featured Japanese corporate experts who gave in-depth presentations on key products, including:
* Soy Sauce (Seasonings)
* Frozen Seafood
* Matcha
Participants had the opportunity to sample these products and engage in lively discussions. The frozen seafood segment, in particular, generated significant excitement, with 99% of attendees expressing high interest in learning how to thaw and prepare products like frozen minced Maguro (Tuna), roasted and frozen Katsuo (Skipjack Tuna), and frozen Sanma (Pacific Saury) with Kabayaki sauce.
Criteria for Certification
The seminar also clarified the requirements for businesses seeking to become certified Japanese Food Supporters:
For Restaurants:
Must consistently serve food or sake using ingredients or alcoholic beverages produced in Japan.
Must clearly indicate on the menu that the food ingredients or alcoholic beverages are made in Japan.
Must actively promote the appeal and characteristics of Japanese-made ingredients and alcoholic beverages.
For Retail Stores:
Must consistently sell food ingredients or alcoholic beverages produced in Japan.
Must display labels on the shelves indicating that the products are made in Japan.
Must actively promote the appeal and characteristics of Japanese-made ingredients and alcoholic beverages.
KPL
