Gangjin-gun Begins First Export of Specialty Product Asparagus to Japan This Year

In the Difficult Situation of COVID-19, Export Volume Increased 2.7 Times Compared to Last Year

On the 7th, a shipment ceremony for asparagus export to Japan was held together with the cultivation farmers. (Photo by Gangjin-gun)

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yong-su] Asparagus, a specialty product of Gangjin County, has started its first export to Japan this year amid difficult conditions due to COVID-19.

According to the county on the 8th, on the 7th, a shipping ceremony was held with the cultivating farmers, and starting with 500 kg of asparagus, a total of eight shipments are planned to be exported to Japan by next month.

Since beginning asparagus cultivation in 2007, an export foundation has been established through joint sorting and strict quality control centered on the Eco-friendly Asparagus Research Association, and exports to Japan started for the first time last year.

This year’s planned export volume reaches 4 tons, which is 2.7 times more than last year. Despite difficult conditions, the quality of Gangjin asparagus is beginning to be recognized overseas.

Gangjin asparagus is harvested until mid-October, with the largest harvest volume between April and May. It also boasts the best quality with thick stalks and excellent texture.

County Governor Lee Seung-ok stated, “Despite many difficulties in agricultural production and exports due to the COVID-19 crisis and winter cold waves, the active efforts of the Eco-friendly Asparagus Research Association have expanded export routes,” and added, “We will strive to stabilize farmers’ income in Gangjin through diversification of export markets.”

Meanwhile, earlier this year, Gangjin County achieved the milestone of exporting Gangjin Tamjinhyang to Malaysia for the first time, and is contributing to the income generation of local farmers by exporting paprika (1,000 tons), strawberries (10 tons), sword bean tea, and shiitake mushroom snacks to Japan, the United States, and Southeast Asia.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.