• Trends in Japanese Kitchen Knife Exports

  • JUNE 17, 2023

  • Growing Popularity Abroad

  • The Japanese kitchen knife industry has witnessed a steady rise in its global presence, particularly marked by an upswing in export values. Despite facing challenges like the 2008 Lehman shock, the resilience and excellence of Japanese kitchen knives have propelled a consistent growth in international demand.

  • Significant Growth in Export Value

    • From Recovery to Boom: 
      Beginning its recovery in the early 2000s, the export value of Japanese kitchen knives has seen a substantial increase. From 2.23686 billion yen in the fiscal year 2001, it soared to 7.64883 billion yen by 2015, showcasing the growing global appreciation for these culinary tools.
    • Recent Uptrend: 
      The momentum has continued with "Japanese blades" exports climbing notably around 2013, reaching approximately 34.1 billion yen in 2022. This upward trajectory underscores the expanding international market for Japanese kitchen knives.

  • Primary Export Destinations

    • Global Reach: 
      The distribution of exports in 2015 highlighted North America (44.6%), Western Europe (25.3%), and Asia (15.7%) as the leading markets, collectively accounting for 85% of total exports. This diverse geographical spread reflects the widespread acclaim for Japanese kitchen knives.
    • Expanding Horizons: 
      With significant shares also in the Middle East, Oceania, Central and Eastern Europe/Russia, Central and South America, and Africa, it's clear that Japanese kitchen knives have carved a niche in various culinary cultures around the world.

  • Conclusion: A Flourishing Global Presence

  • The data paints a clear picture: Japanese kitchen knives are not just a domestic treasure but a globally sought-after commodity. Their increasing popularity and demand across continents highlight the universal appeal of Japanese craftsmanship, precision, and quality. As exports continue to grow, it reaffirms the esteemed position of Japanese kitchen knives in kitchens worldwide.

Why Japanese Knives Excel Globally

We aim to support our customers' passion for cooking and provide them with a more fulfilling culinary experience by introducing why Japanese knives are considered the best in the world. Simultaneously, we seek to honor the craftsmanship and tradition of Japanese artisans by showcasing the reasons behind the global acclaim of Japanese knives.

Why Japanese Knives Excel Globally
sushi-instructor

Blog Author: Toru

-Professional background-
・Graduated from Tokyo Sushi Academy
・Sushi lesson instructor at Tsukiji Tokyo
・Making sushi at RC Show, one of Canada's largest Toronto food shows

Traditional Japanese knives, like those from Sakai City, are globally prized for their sharpness and elegance. Yet, Sakai's dwindling artisans pose a challenge to preserving this craft. To combat this, I'm dedicated to spreading the brilliance of Japanese knives worldwide. My dream is to sustain Sakai's legacy while meeting global demand.

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • japanese_knife_made_in_Sakai

    1. High-quality Japanese Knive

    We offer knives crafted by craftsmen from Sakai City.

  • Honbazuke

    2. Genuine Sharpness

    To ensure you experience sharpness, we provide a free Honbazuke by our skilled craftsmen.

  • 3. Lifetime Knife Use

    Every knife comes with a free Saya(Sheath) for durability. We also provide paid after-sales services with Sakai City Japanese knife workshop.