일본의 미역 수급동향과 당면과제에 관한 연구

Abstract

Even if the seaweed production in Japan is lower than that of Korea and China, the consumption in this country is one of the most important in the world. Japan's annual average seaweed consumption is around 300,000 tons and 80% of it is supplied by importation. Therefore, change in seaweed supply and demand in neighboring countries like Korea and China will directly affect the market. Currently, Japan’s seaweed supply has been affected by the earthquake damage in the northeast region, and the production forecast is not clear. The purpose of this study is to analyze the supply and demand trends of seaweed in Japan, considering the main issues of this industry, and suggest strategies for the challenges existing in this industry. This study was conducted to assess the causes of the decrease in seaweed production. The causation for the decrease in seaweed production is firstly, the reduction in management and ageing, and secondly, the increase in imports that reduce price competitiveness of Japanese seaweed. In addition, the impact of the current earthquake( in March 2011) at the northeast of the country where major seaweed producers of Japan was located affected the balance of future supply and demand. Thirdly, it is the decrease in domestic consumption of seaweed compared to the past. Last of all the development of seaweed products is quite limited. Therefore in order to develop the seaweed industry in Japan, a change from small family-run business to a more larger system of cooperatives is required. Also in order to increase participation of new members (in the industry), new policies and rules should be established. Moreover, it is necessary to enhance product differentiation strategies. Last of all, increasing competitiveness through appropriate safety management is needed.