Exhibiting at Foodex Japan 2025

Ehime Prefectural Government

The Ehime Prefectural Government is the governing body of Ehime Prefecture, located on Shikoku Island, Japan. It oversees regional administration, policy implementation, economic development, and public welfare for over 1.3 million residents. The government plays a crucial role in managing infrastructure, education, agriculture, tourism, and industry, ensuring sustainable growth and international collaboration.

Core Responsibilities

The Ehime Prefectural Government is responsible for a wide range of administrative functions, including:

• Economic Development & Trade Promotion

  • Supporting local businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology
  • Expanding export markets for Ehime’s key industries
  • Attracting foreign investment and business partnerships

• Agriculture & Fisheries

  • Ehime ranks among Japan’s top citrus-producing regions, producing Setoka, Iyokan, and Mikan oranges
  • Strong support for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, including the cultivation of sea bream (Tai), pearl farming, and seafood exports

• Tourism & Cultural Promotion

  • Ehime is home to Matsuyama Castle, Dogo Onsen (one of Japan’s oldest hot springs), and the Shimanami Kaido cycling route
  • Significant efforts in increasing inbound tourism from China, South Korea, and Europe

• Infrastructure & Urban Development

  • Investments in road networks, bridges, and ports to improve domestic and international trade
  • Development of smart city initiatives in Matsuyama

• Environmental Protection & Sustainability

  • Commitment to reducing carbon emissions and renewable energy adoption
  • Promotion of sustainable forestry and marine conservation

Economic & Industrial Strength

Ehime Prefecture has a GDP of approximately ¥4.5 trillion (USD 40 billion), driven by key industries such as:

1. Manufacturing & Industry

   • Shipbuilding Industry: Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. is Japan’s largest shipbuilder, holding a 40% domestic market share
   • Paper Manufacturing: Ehime is home to Japan’s leading paper manufacturers, including Daio Paper Corporation

2. Agriculture & Fisheries

   • Japan’s largest citrus-producing region (accounting for nearly 15% of national citrus production)
   • Top producer of sea bream (Tai) in Japan

3. Tourism & Hospitality

   • Over 8 million tourists annually, including 350,000 international visitors

Trade & Export Data

The Ehime Prefectural Government actively supports global trade and exports through partnerships and subsidies. Key export statistics include:

• Citrus Fruits & Processed Foods

  • Major export destinations: China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, USA
  • Annual citrus exports: over 10,000 metric tons

• Shipbuilding & Maritime Equipment

  • Over 50% of ships built in Ehime are exported internationally

• Specialty Paper & Industrial Goods

  • Exported to North America, Southeast Asia, and Europe

Certifications & Compliance

The Ehime Prefectural Government ensures regulatory compliance and quality control across all industries. Key certifications include:

• JAS Certification for agricultural exports
• ISO 9001 & 14001 for industrial production
• HACCP & EU Compliance for seafood exports

Global Partnerships & Investments

The government has established strategic trade agreements with international markets:

• EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement – Facilitating easier trade for Ehime’s food and industrial exports
• Sister City Agreements – Collaborations with Jiangsu Province (China) and Orange County (USA)

Major Achievements

• Ranked among Japan’s top 10 prefectures for foreign direct investment (FDI)
• Over ¥200 billion invested in infrastructure projects in the last decade
• Growth in inbound tourism by 150% since 2015

The Ehime Prefectural Government remains committed to fostering economic growth, innovation, and sustainability while preserving the region's rich cultural and natural heritage.