Source: Halal Times

Kyoto, Japan – A family-run beef producer from Kumamoto Prefecture is making impressive inroads into Muslim markets worldwide with its premium Wagyu beef. Sugimoto-Honten has successfully navigated the complex requirements of halal certification, allowing the company to export its prestigious Kurohana Wagyu to consumers who follow Islamic dietary laws.

Rapid Export Growth

Since beginning international shipments in 2021, Sugimoto-Honten has witnessed extraordinary growth in its export business. Starting with just six cattle valued at under 10 million yen, the company’s overseas sales have skyrocketed to 1.1 billion yen (approximately $6.7 million) in just three years. This remarkable expansion demonstrates the significant demand for high-quality halal Japanese beef in Muslim countries.

The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has recognized Sugimoto-Honten’s achievements by designating the company as a “flagship producer and exporter.” This recognition positions the firm to receive enhanced governmental support for its international expansion efforts.

Overcoming Halal Certification Challenges

For food producers looking to enter Muslim markets, obtaining halal certification is essential. The term “halal,” meaning “permitted” under Islamic law, requires strict adherence to religious standards throughout the entire production process. This includes ensuring animals are not fed pork-derived products and maintaining appropriate sanitary conditions.

Sugimoto-Honten has methodically addressed these requirements, successfully obtaining halal certification in seven countries and regions. The company’s strategic approach began with certifications in Thailand and Macao in 2020, followed by the United Arab Emirates in 2021, which opened the door to Middle Eastern markets. Additional certifications in Taiwan and Singapore have further expanded their reach.

The company isn’t stopping there. President Koshiro Sugimoto has expressed determination to tackle the particularly challenging certification processes in Indonesia and Malaysia, demonstrating the firm’s commitment to continued expansion.

Quality and Efficiency Improvements

Sugimoto-Honten sources its export-bound Kurohana Wagyu cattle from selected farms across Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima prefectures. This multi-regional approach helps maintain consistent supply to meet growing international demand.

The company continuously works to enhance its products while maintaining competitive pricing. Current initiatives include refining cattle feed formulations to optimize flavor and texture, as well as efforts to reduce the fattening period from the current 27-28 months without compromising the exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor that characterizes premium Japanese Black beef.

Government Support and Future Vision

As a designated flagship exporter, Sugimoto-Honten will receive valuable assistance from MAFF for its international growth. This support includes facilitating overseas promotional campaigns, assisting with business negotiations, and organizing tours of production facilities for international buyers.

President Sugimoto summarized the company’s vision: “We will be delivering the world’s finest Japanese Black beef to consumers across many countries and regions beyond religious barriers.” This statement reflects Sugimoto-Honten’s ambition to share its exceptional product with a global audience while respecting diverse cultural and religious requirements.

The company aims to increase its export-to-sales ratio from the current 13 percent to 20 percent by 2027, highlighting confidence in continued strong demand for its halal Japanese beef in international markets.

Sugimoto-Honten’s success story demonstrates how Japanese agricultural producers can effectively adapt to international requirements while maintaining traditional quality standards. Their experience serves as a valuable model for other Japanese companies seeking to introduce their products to the global marketplace, particularly in Muslim-majority nations.

Original Articles:

halaltimes.com. (n.d.). Kumamoto Firm Exports Halal Japanese Beef to Muslim Nations. Retrieved April 8, 2025, from https://www.halaltimes.com/kumamoto-firm-exports-halal-japanese-beef-to-muslim-nations/