Meat distributors, butchers and restaurant owners interested in exploring premium Japanese Wagyu beef can explore the world of Wagyu directly in Japan. Hosted by the Japan External Trade Organization Chicago, an American Association of Meat Processors Allied Member, and Japan Livestock Products Export Promotion Council, the tour will last for approximately one week in January 2026.

The tour will travel to several locations in Japan, including a Certified Wagyu processing facility approved for US export), Federal Meat Academy, Wagyu cattle farm and traditional Japanese restaurants for Wagyu tasting.

JETRO is looking for US-based meat distributors, butchers and restaurants not currently handling Japanese Wagyu and businesses considering future import and distribution of Japanese Wagyu. Wholesalers will be given priority in the selection process.

JETRO will recommend candidates to J-LEC, and the final selection will be made by J-LEC based on business scale, current operations and future potential. Round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations will be covered by J-LEC. There will be a limit of one participant per company, and the registration deadline is July 2, 2025. All participants will be required to answer a questionnaire after the tour.

Those interested can contact JETRO Chicago by email at jetrochicago3@jetro.go.jp; kaori_hoshino@jetro.go.jp; or tatsuya_togashi@jetro.go.jp.

JETRO is a government-affiliated organization promoting Japanese food and beverages in the U.S. J-LEC is a council of Japanese Wagyu producers and exporters dedicated to promoting Japanese livestock products internationally.

Source: American Association of Meat Processors