Hazelnuts from the Black Sea Arrive in Japan
12 Turkish Producers Gather in Tokyo for New Encounters with the Japanese Market
On February 5, 2026, the Turkish Hazelnut Industry Networking & Matchmaking Event took place at Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo. On this occasion, 12 leading hazelnut producers from Türkiye’s Black Sea region traveled to Japan, actively networking and holding business meetings with Japanese food manufacturers, importers, and distributors.
Türkiye accounts for about 70 percent of the world’s hazelnut production. Brought up by abundant natural resources and a long farming tradition, these hazelnuts found a new connection with Japan’s culinary scene during this one-day event.
Türkiye, the world’s top hazelnut producer
The Black Sea coastal region of Türkiye is recognized globally as one of the most important hazelnut-producing areas. Surrounded by mountains and sea, the region provides an ideal climate and soil for growing aromatic and flavorful nuts.
At the event, experienced producers with strong international track records introduced their products directly to Japanese industry professionals. The showcase included a wide range of offerings such as:
Networking and B2B Meetings with Tasting Sessions
Along with pre-arranged B2B meetings, the event included networking sessions with tastings. Participants had the chance to try the hazelnuts and speak directly with producers about cultivation methods, quality standards, and supply capabilities.
For Japanese companies, this offered valuable insight into the potential of hazelnuts as a versatile ingredient. For Turkish producers, it was a key opportunity to better understand the expectations and quality standards of the Japanese market.
Discussions throughout the venue also explored possibilities for future transactions and product development, making the event a highly productive exchange for both sides.
Expanding the Potential of Hazelnuts in Japan
In Japan, hazelnuts are widely known as a main ingredient in chocolate and Western-style sweets. However, interest has been growing in recent years toward broader uses, including:
While Japan is known as one of the world’s most demanding markets for quality, it is also a place where products with exceptional quality and a compelling story can earn lasting admiration. This event marked an initial step for Japanese food companies and Turkish producers to explore new products and taste possibilities together.
From the Black Sea Region to the Japanese Dinner Table
Across Turkey's Black Sea hills, hazelnut orchards stretch endlessly. From these fields, carefully harvested nuts travel across the sea to Japan.
More than just a business meeting, this event provided an opportunity for producers and food companies to meet face to face and deepen their understanding of each other’s culture and markets.
The distinctive charm of Turkish hazelnuts, still somewhat unfamiliar in Japan, might soon become part of Japanese confections, baked goods, and new culinary products.
After all, every new food story starts with a human connection.
This day in Tokyo quietly marked the start of a new ingredient story, connecting the hazelnut fields of the Black Sea with dining tables across Japan.
Expanding Opportunities Through Cross-Border E-commerce
In conjunction with the delegation, TİM also organized a Japan-focused e-commerce business mission in Tokyo from December 8 to 12, 2025, in coordination with the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Türkiye.
The program included meetings and site visits with major e-commerce platforms such as Rakuten, Amazon Japan, and Yahoo Shopping, as well as industry associations, logistics companies, and payment service providers. These activities offered Turkish companies valuable insights into Japan’s digital commerce ecosystem and market environment.
Cross-border e-commerce is gaining attention as an effective entry point into the Japanese market, becoming an increasingly important channel for enhancing brand visibility and expanding sales opportunities.
Strengthening Business Ties Between Japan and Türkiye
Japan and Türkiye have maintained friendly relations for a long time, and in recent years, economic exchanges have grown across various sectors, including food, textiles, and digital business.
This trade delegation mission and B2B matchmaking event marked a significant step for Turkish companies aiming to enter the Japanese market and helped advance bilateral business relations.
Through ongoing engagement and collaboration, new business opportunities and products connecting Japan and Türkiye are expected to emerge in the coming years.
