The Gorgonzola Consortium will once again take part in Foodex Japan 2026, confirming its presence at the 51st edition of Asia’s leading agri-food trade show, scheduled to take place in Tokyo from 10 to 13 March 2026 at the Tokyo Big Sight exhibition center.
Foodex is the most important platform for commercial promotion and market development for the agri-food sector across the entire Asia-Pacific region, at a time when Japanese imports of Italian food are showing significant growth. According to data from the Italian Trade Agency, imports from Italy increased by 14% in 2024 compared to 2023.
ITALIAN CHEESE EXPORTS CONTINUE TO GROW
Within this broader context, the dairy sector continues to perform solidly. According to AFIDOP (the Association of Italian PDO and PGI Cheeses), exports of Italian cheese to Japan reached 12,700 tonnes in 2024, the latest annual data available, for a total value of approximately €107 million, marking a 1.1% increase year-on-year.
This performance reflects the diversity of styles, textures, and flavors of Italian cheeses, as well as their versatility and the enduring appeal of Made-in-Italy products, long associated with centuries-old know-how and a certified supply chain that guarantees quality and authenticity for consumers.
STRONG GROWTH POTENTIAL FOR GORGONZOLA IN JAPAN
For Gorgonzola producers, the Japanese market offers significant room for further expansion. With over 33,000 cheese wheels imported and a value exceeding €4 million as of 31 October 2025, Japan ranks as the leading export market for Gorgonzola in the Asia-Pacific region and the 12th worldwide (source: CLAL).
Additional structural factors further support this growth potential. Japan, along with China and South Korea, has a very high rate of lactose intolerance, while Gorgonzola is naturally lactose-free (less than 0.1 g per 100 g, a natural result of its traditional production process; it contains galactose).
Moreover, East Asian consumers increasingly value “umami”, often referred to as the fifth taste—a savory flavor profile highly sought after in contemporary cuisine. This taste sensation is characteristic of aged and fermented foods, including naturally fermented cheeses such as Gorgonzola.
TASTINGS AND PROMOTION AT THE ITALIAN PAVILION
The Gorgonzola Consortium will welcome visitors at the Italy Pavilion, WEST Hall 2, Booth 148, within the official Italian collective organized by the Italian Trade Agency. The stand will host product tastings and the Consortium’s ongoing educational and promotional activities, aimed at strengthening awareness and understanding of Gorgonzola PDO among international buyers and industry professionals.
L’articolo Gorgonzola Returns to Foodex Japan to Strengthen Presence in Asia-Pacific proviene da Italianfood.net.