Texas upscale grocer wants Japanese foods with story and rarity
JETRO reports that Central Market, an upscale Texas supermarket, held its supplier showcase in Dallas on October 8, where four Japanese food makers presented seasonings, yuzu drinks, persimmons, prepared foods and more to buyers. Participants reported positive reactions, including concrete price talks. A buyer said they want products with a story, rarity and premium appeal rather than Japanese foods found everywhere.
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Summaries are written by Seiichi Studio based on the original releases. Always check the source for the exact details.
According to JETRO, Thailand's FDA says a new notification on packaged-food labelling will soon be published in the Royal Gazette and take effect the next day. It adds sesame to the allergen list and names specific tree nuts, drops the country-of-manufacture requirement for export-only food, and sets conditions for optional digital labels. Products labelled under the current Notification No. 450 may be sold for two years after it takes effect.
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JETRO reports that Thailand's FDA has opened public comment, until November 13, 2026, on revising Notification No. 386 on fresh vegetables and fruit. The rule now covers 48 designated items such as strawberries and apples; the proposal would cover all fresh produce and require manufacturers, importers and sellers to meet its GMP standards. It would take effect one year after publication.
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Indonesia plans to extend the grace period for mandatory halal certification by two years. For imported food and beverages the requirement will now apply from 18 October 2028, and dietary supplements, cosmetics and some household goods get the same extension. Timing still differs by product and business category, so exporters should watch for the amended regulation.
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On 5 October 2026 JETRO held a Japanese food showcase in Dhaka, Bangladesh, where seven Japanese companies presented products such as cookies, tempura and soy sauce with tastings, and 26 local buyers took part in business meetings. It is another public channel for small food producers looking at South Asian markets.
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Japan's agriculture ministry (MAFF) reports that Indonesia has pushed back mandatory halal certification for imported food and beverages from October 18, 2026 to October 18, 2028, after companies and industry groups said they needed more time. The requirement has not been scrapped, so exporters are still expected to prepare.
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