Recent developments in the Japanese food distribution system

Abstract

Japanese distribution systems have been undergoing change because of social and economic developments in Japan, and also because of regulatory changes by the Japanese government. This is significant because there is the view, particularly among Japan's trading partners, that the Japanese distribution system represents a non-tariff barrier to exports. This paper examines some of the recent changes in Japan, focusing specifically on food. One of the conclusions of the paper is that the growth in Japanese supermarket chains and consumer cooperatives will increase the opportunities for foreign food exporters to supply the Japanese market.