Global Emergency Measures for the Stable Supply of Vegetable Seeds (MAFF, Japan)

— Safeguarding the Foundation of Japan’s Food System: Rebuilding a Global Seed Supply Network with 30 Years of Expertise —

Seeds are the foundation of Japan’s vegetable production. However, approximately 90% of the vegetable seeds used in Japan are produced overseas. Today, Japan’s seed supply network faces serious challenges. Competition for seed production sites is intensifying worldwide, alongside growing risks from climate change, geopolitical instability, and plant diseases.

To address these challenges, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan (MAFF) launched the Global Emergency Measures for the Stable Supply of Vegetable Seeds in FY2023.

The program provides government subsidies to Japanese seed companies with strong and feasible project proposals, helping strengthen Japan’s vegetable seed supply.

At the request of selected seed companies, we support their overseas expansion by undertaking activities such as surveys for new seed production sites and coordination with local government authorities. With over 30 years of experience in agricultural projects across emerging and low-income countries, we support efforts to strengthen Japan’s food supply.

Our Scope of Work

■Development of New Seed Production Sites

Selection and field surveys of potential seed production locations, with a view to diversifying risk and strengthening supply resilience.

■Regulatory and Institutional Coordination

Coordination with local government authorities to establish smooth and reliable export–import frameworks.

■Strengthening Plant Quarantine Systems

Technical training for local plant inspection officers to enhance phytosanitary and quarantine capacity.

■Promotion of International Collaboration

Support for negotiations and partnership building with local government agencies and international donors.

Extracting seeds from harvested pumpkins at the survey site.