The Gorgonzola Consortium will be present again this year at Foodex Japan 2026, an event dedicated to the agri-food sector now in its 51st edition, which will be held in Tokyo from March 10 to 13, 2026, at the Tokyo Big Sight exhibition center.
Foodex is the main initiative for disseminating and promoting the sector across the entire Asia-Pacific region, in years when Japanese agri-food imports from Italy have seen significant increases: +14% in 2024 compared to 2023 (source: ICE). As far as the dairy sector in particular is concerned, according to AFIDOP, the Association of Italian PDO and PGI Cheeses, exports of Italian cheeses to Japan reached 12,700 tons in 2024 (the latest annual data available), for a total value of approximately €107 million, an increase of 1.1% compared to the previous year. This is thanks to the variety of styles, textures, and flavors of our dairy products, as well as to their versatility and the appeal of Made in Italy, which has always been synonymous with centuries-old know-how and a certified supply chain that offers consumers quality and authenticity.
For Gorgonzola producers, there is therefore significant room for growth in this market. With over 33,000 wheels and a value of over €4 million as of October 31, 2025, Japan is the leading country for Gorgonzola exports in that area and 12th overall worldwide (source: Clal).
There is another aspect: Japan, but also China and South Korea, are countries where the percentage of lactose-intolerant people is very high, and Gorgonzola is naturally lactose-free (less than 0.1g/100g, a natural consequence of the typical production process. It contains galactose). Secondly, in the East, the “umami” taste, the so-called fifth taste, is in vogue. This is a palatal sensation that is highly sought after in avant-garde local restaurants and is typical, among other things, of certain aged and fermented foods made from live ingredients, such as Gorgonzola.
The event will take place at the Italian Pavilion – WEST Hall 2, Stand 148, within the ICE’s Italian community. Product tastings and the Consortium’s usual promotional activities will take place at the stand.
