Unlocking Aichi’s Horticulture Potential Through Innovation
Aichi Prefecture is at a turning point in its agricultural development. While it remains Japan’s leading producer of flowers and accounts for 16.4% of floricultural products and 5% of vegetable production nationwide, the region faces challenges. Farmland is shrinking due to an aging population, and overall production levels are declining. To deal with this, t the Aichi Agricultural Research Center underscores their commitment to addressing these challenges with innovation.
Dutch expertise in greenhouse technology and precision farming presents a major opportunity to support Aichi’s horticultural sector. By integrating high-tech solutions, production per square meter can be significantly increased, ensuring that even with a declining cultivation area, overall output can continue to grow.
Knowledge Exchange: Leaf Co. and the Drive for Innovation
One of Aichi’s notable horticultural companies is Leaf Co., Japan’s largest orchid grower, covering 10 hectares and holding a 10% market share. Their young plants are cultivated in Taiwan and further grown in their mid-tech greenhouse in Aichi. Owner Mr Mikinori Ozaki understands the power of knowledge exchange and visits the Netherlands annually to learn about the latest advancements in high-tech horticulture. However, he acknowledges that Japan still has a long way to go.
Yet, Mr Osaki also sees massive opportunities for the Japanese horticultural sector, provided it collaborates with Dutch technology providers. With smarter cultivation techniques, automation, and data-driven decision-making, Japan’s ornamental plant industry could greatly enhance its efficiency and competitiveness.
High-Tech Greenhouses: Inochio Farm Leading the Way
Our delegation also visited Inochio Farm in Toyohashi, a pioneering project by Inochio Group focused on advancing next-generation greenhouse horticulture. This 3.6-hectare high-tech cherry tomato farm operates year-round, utilizing advanced Dutch technologies to maximize production. Inochio actively collaborates with Dutch suppliers, integrating state-of-the-art solutions into their operations.
Beyond farming, Inochio is shaping the future of agriculture through education, research, and business development. Their farm is dedicated to improving farming models, training new growers, and optimizing labor management. By systematically applying technology and data, they are not just increasing yields but also ensuring the long-term sustainability of Japan’s greenhouse sector.
Aichi’s Agricultural Future: Smarter, More Productive, More Sustainable
Aichi Prefecture is at a turning point. With its government backing innovation, forward-thinking companies like Leaf Co. and Inochio Farm driving innovation, and strong partnerships with Dutch horticultural experts, the region has a unique opportunity to boost agricultural output, reduce food imports, and revitalize its rural economy.
The Netherlands sees great potential in working alongside Aichi’s growers, researchers, and policymakers to accelerate this transition. By sharing expertise, co-developing smarter cultivation methods, and integrating advanced greenhouse technologies, Japan’s horticulture sector can achieve sustainable growth. With the right approach, innovation can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s successes, ensuring that Aichi remains a flourishing hub of Japanese horticulture for generations to come.
