Kuroge Wagyu striploin, a cut considered exceptionally premium, is sold at several stores in Ho Chi Minh City.

During a working visit to Ho Chi Minh City in late last month, Ms. Erena Ikoma, Deputy Technical Director and Head of Livestock Promotion at the Kagoshima government's Meat Export Federation Office, revealed that imports of Wagyu beef into Vietnam have grown from 2 tons per year a decade ago to 39 tons this year.

She added that Kagoshima has realized tremendous potential in the Vietnamese market, where many consumers are willing to purchase premium products to elevate their culinary experiences.

Currently, there are 99 certified Wagyu beef retail outlets worldwide, including two in Vietnam. Along with expanding distribution channels, Kagoshima aims to organize additional promotional events to introduce not only Wagyu beef but also other agricultural and seafood products to Vietnamese consumers. These include Shochu Kojika liquor, yellowtail fish, and Japanese red sea bream, among others.