Japan Farm Minister Visits Plant Factory Developer
- Japanese Agriculture Minister Norikazu Suzuki visited Oishii Farm's research and progress facility in Hamura,Tokyo,on Monday,signaling increased government support for indoor vertical farming as a key component of future...
- The facility, slated for full operation by the end of 2024, will focus on developing advanced plant varieties specifically suited for controlled surroundings agriculture.
- Minister Suzuki emphasized the potential of plant factories to ensure a stable food supply,and to become a new source of income for Japan.
Japan Invests in Vertical Farming for Food Security
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Japanese Agriculture Minister Norikazu Suzuki visited Oishii Farm’s research and progress facility in Hamura,Tokyo,on Monday,signaling increased government support for indoor vertical farming as a key component of future food security strategies.
Oishii farm and the Future of Plant Factories
The facility, slated for full operation by the end of 2024, will focus on developing advanced plant varieties specifically suited for controlled surroundings agriculture. Oishii Farm,a U.S.-based company, currently operates indoor farms in the United States, selling strawberries and tomatoes. The company intends to concentrate its research and development efforts in Japan.
Government Support and Policy Initiatives
Minister Suzuki emphasized the potential of plant factories to ensure a stable food supply,and to become a new source of income for Japan. This aligns with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent announcement regarding increased investment in facilities designed to safeguard food production against climate-related disruptions. The Prime Minister’s office highlighted the importance of resilient food systems in a recent press conference.
Collaboration and Technological Expertise
Daiki Koga, CEO of Oishii Farm, underscored Japan’s unique strengths in combining superior plant varieties, skilled agricultural practices, and advanced engineering capabilities. This collaboration aims to leverage Japan’s existing expertise to drive innovation in vertical farming technology. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has indicated a commitment to supporting research and development in this sector.