What matters most to Japanese dairy professionals when assessing European dehydrated fodder?
Quality control, supply reliability and how the product can fit into local feeding systems were among the main questions raised during a recent five-day activity in Japan.
From 25 to 29 May, a delegation representing 11 Spanish and Italian companies travelled from Tokyo to Hokkaido and Gunma. The visit was organised under the EU Dehydrated Fodder From Spain and Italy campaign, led by AEFA and Filiera Italiana Foraggi and co-funded by the European Union.
The programme opened with a seminar in Tokyo for importers, distributors, farmers, associations and specialised media. Veterinarians Pablo Llorente and José Vidal spoke alongside campaign director Pablo Recio Gracia and AEFA director Luis Machín Álvarez, covering production, quality control and market potential.
Ms Oda, an agricultural researcher from Norinchukin, added the local perspective. She looked at the challenges facing Japan’s dairy industry and how EU dehydrated fodder could support feed security, feeding strategies and farm profitability.
The exchange continued in Obihiro, where Dr Uchida from Hokkaido University introduced Japan’s feed market to professionals from Hokkaido’s dairy and feed sectors
Farm visits in Tokachi, Ebetsu and Gunma brought these discussions into a working environment, giving the delegation a closer look at regional feeding practices, forage production and herd management.
Five days of direct exchange, grounded in the practical needs of Japan’s dairy sector.
