American lamb gets official introduction in Japan

American Lamb Board directors Greg Ahart and Elizabeth Dressler helped to introduce American lamb to key buyers and media at the American lamb relaunch seminar and tasting event held in Japan recently via the U.S. Meat Export Federation. After a nearly 15-year absence, American lamb officially regained access to Japan earlier this year.

The chefs, purveyors, importers and media in attendance learned about American lamb production, the unique attributes of American lamb and heard directly about available products from exporters. Attendees were also able to taste and observe different lamb menus created by the executive chef of The Strings Hotel in Japan.

Demand for lamb is increasing in Japan, offering exceptional opportunities for the American sheep industry. Japan’s total lamb imports reached a record value of $168 million last year, up 26 percent from the previous year. Through May 2018, imports at $95 million are 43 percent higher than last year, and volume is up 28 percent to 12,265 metric tons.