Japanese Cuisine Supplied by TOP Trading

By Daniel de Bomford

Founded in 1970 to import lamb and mutton to Japan, TOP Trading has become a leading trading firm for both imports and exports of food products. President Toshiro Nakazawa says the company has built confidence with its customers and prides itself on catering to individual preferences. “We position ourselves as a trading company that provides access to a wide range of high-quality options,” he says.

Nakazawa says TOP Trading’s export business focuses on Japanese ingredients, such as miso, soy sauce, sansho and yuzu, rather than finished retail products. He recognizes that Japanese dishes evolve in foreign countries, citing the California roll, but is cognizant of diminishing the need for authentic ingredients. “Instead, we want to ensure that Japanese ingredients remain valued and essential, not only for preparing traditional dishes but also for creating unique local dishes that incorporate these elements,” he explains. TOP Trading tailors its products to international markets to make them accessible and appealing while maintaining their Japanese essence. Its strategy targets restaurant chefs less familiar with Japanese cuisine and inspires them to combine the ingredients with local traditions to create something unique. “This approach not only expands awareness of Japanese ingredients but also leads to a more sustainable and positive long-term outcome for our business,” he says.

Trading companies like TOP Trading play a vital role in supporting the development of SMEs in Japan. Nakazawa says maintaining consistent yearly purchases is a key aspect of supporting these companies, and TOP Trading strives to increase the volumes of its purchases yearly. He describes fostering communication with suppliers to ensure they understand how the products are used and the demographics that enjoy them as equally important. “This feedback helps SMEs feel proud of their products and the role they play in the market,” he says. TOP Trading’s expertise, which has been cultivated over decades, ensures that suppliers and producers can overcome challenges, such as the various regulatory differences between regions.

Nakazawa sees the path to growth in deepening the company’s relationship with its partners rather than seeking new ones. His goal of expanding the export business is key to his ambition to achieve parity between the company’s import and export business divisions. “The export business, however, is something I personally initiated, and it holds a special place in our company’s history as my contribution,” he says.