Türkiye Targets Japan Market Ahead of FOODEX JAPAN 2026
Turkish food industry accelerates its expansion through FOODEX JAPAN 2026, with growing B2B activities and strategic market entry initiatives
Türkiye Steps Up Its Presence in Japan
Türkiye, a country renowned for one of the world’s richest culinary traditions, is intensifying its approach to the Japanese market. In preparation for FOODEX JAPAN 2026, one of Asia’s largest food and beverage exhibitions to be held at Tokyo Big Sight in March 2026, the Turkish government and related industry organizations are actively strengthening their initiatives.
In recent years, Türkiye’s food industry has been gaining global recognition for its high quality and diverse ingredients, steadily increasing its presence in international markets. Interest in Japan has also grown year by year, and this latest wave of activity clearly reflects that momentum.
Expanding Presence at FOODEX JAPAN
Türkiye has consistently participated in FOODEX JAPAN, with its presence expanding each year. At the 2026 edition, 43 Turkish companies, along with two industry clusters, are scheduled to exhibit. However, Türkiye’s efforts extend well beyond the exhibition itself.
In November 2025, two separate trade missions organized by different Turkish institutions visited Japan and held B2B matchmaking meetings with Japanese companies. This was followed by additional business meetings in December and again in February of the new year.
These ongoing initiatives demonstrate a clear, strategic push by the Turkish government and industry organizations to accelerate entry into the Japanese market, particularly in the food sector.
The Untapped Appeal of Turkish Cuisine
Turkish cuisine is often counted among the world’s three great culinary traditions, alongside Chinese and French cuisine. Yet in Japan, its depth and diversity are still not widely understood. That said, Turkish restaurants in Tokyo have been gradually increasing in number. Areas such as Roppongi, Meiji Jingumae, and Ueno’s Ameyoko are home to numerous kebab shops that proudly serve authentic flavors, making Turkish food more accessible to Japanese consumers.
When asked about Turkish food, many Japanese people still think of kebabs and stretchy ice cream. However, Türkiye is in fact a treasure trove of culinary culture, shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. Its cuisine is supported by an abundance of ingredients, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, olive oil, dairy products, and spices, creating a depth that goes far beyond common perceptions.
A Culinary Heritage Shaped by History
Turkish cuisine has evolved under the influence of Islamic culture and the sophisticated court traditions of the Ottoman Empire, resulting in one of the most refined culinary systems in the region.
Historical records from the late 15th century suggest that meals at the time were relatively simple, consisting mainly of kebabs and sugar. However, by the 16th century, the variety of ingredients expanded dramatically, with spices arriving from India and Southeast Asia. This development laid the foundation for what could be described as a culinary infrastructure, allowing Ottoman palace cuisine to flourish. Over time, these culinary traditions spread from the imperial court to the everyday dining tables of the general population. By the 18th century, Turkish cuisine had matured to the point where cookbooks were being published, reflecting a highly developed food culture.
Looking Ahead to FOODEX JAPAN 2026
FOODEX JAPAN 2026 will take place over four days, from March 10 to 13, 2026, at Tokyo Big Sight. For the Turkish government and industry organizations, this exhibition represents a key gateway to the Japanese market.
At “delicious Japan”, we will continue to explore how Türkiye’s food industry is approaching Japan, featuring detailed coverage of B2B matchmaking events and the initiatives of participating companies.
https://www.discoverturkishfood.com/learnmore.html
