Traditional Scottish foods such as Arbroath smokies and Stornoway black pudding have been given protected status in Japan in an effort to stop counterfeiters.
The products will be safeguarded against imitation in the Far East after a deal was struck between the British and Japanese governments.
Other Scottish delicacies to have geographical indications (GIs) in Japan include Scotch beef and Scotch lamb, Orkney Scottish island cheddar and Traditional Ayrshire Dunlop cheese.
GIs prevent counterfeit products being put on the Japanese market, ensuring that UK businesses can export with confidence and consumers receive authentic, high-quality products.
Japan’s population of 125 million has a strong appetite for international food and drink. The country’s status as the world’s third largest economy in 2022 highlights the strength of its consumer market and the commercial opportunities for premium British products in Japan.
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Grant Moir, the managing director of AK Stoddart, a supplier of Scotch Beef, welcomed the announcement.
He said: “Since Stoddarts started to supply beef to Japan back in 2019 the brand attributes of Scotch beef has always been a major draw for the Japanese market.
“With the recent announcement that the geographical indication is to be formally recognised, this will only enhance and strengthen the Scotch and Stoddart’s brand in Japan.
“Scotland has long been admired for its food and drink heritage and this will only benefit the global reputation of Scotland.”
A total of 37 food and drink products from across the UK have been given protection as part of the deal. They also include Melton Mowbray pork pies, Cornish pasties and Anglesey sea salt.
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The UK will be protecting the geographical indications of several Japanese food and drink products, including Hokkaido wine and Hiba beef.
Greg Hands, the trade policy minister, said: “The UK’s excellent selection of unique, high-quality products are highly sought after around the world.
“Consumers in Japan can now be assured that they are enjoying the authentic taste of great British food and drink.
“This announcement not only protects beloved British delicacies like Scotch beef and Cornish pasties, but also gives UK producers added confidence when selling into Japan, part of our plan to help British businesses grow and export more.”
Mark Spencer, the food and farming minister, said: “Our GI protections are a guarantee of quality and excellence — so that the best of British food and drink can be appreciated not only here in the UK, but around the globe.
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“These additional protections will give assurance to British farmers and producers who export their unique products to Japan — and to Japanese consumers who will know they are buying the real thing.”
