Stable diplomatic relations between Mexico and Japan.

Trade agreements such as the Mexico-Japan Economic Association Treaty that facilitates bilateral trade.

Norms and regulations demanding phytosanitary measures by Japan (strict quality and health control).

Mexican agricultural exports are supported by government institutions like SADER and APEAM, helping with certifications and compliance for foreign markets.

High purchasing power in Japan, which allows consumers to pay higher prices for premium products like avocados.

1 Mexican Peso is equal to 7.88 Japanese Yen.

Japan has the third largest economy in the world. The country has a high GDP per capita (42,000 in 2024), supporting premium food imports like avocados.

Growing interest in healthy food and wellness. 

Demand in Western style and in home cooking.

The Japanese consumers demand consistent quality, appearance and freshness.

Use of controlled atmosphere containers.

Adoption of blockchain and traceability systems.

Irrigation automation.

Japan’s retail and logistics sectors are highly automated, requiring precise coordination with suppliers.

Japan is environmentally conscious and supports eco-friendly and sustainable sourcing. 

Interest in carbon footprint labeling and sustainable packaging in the Japanese market.

Climate changes.

Certification programs.

Structured import laws ensure stable procedures. 

Japan has strict important regulations and food safety laws, like maximum residue levels for pesticides.

Health conscious consumers: Focus on nutritional balance and disease prevention.

Aging population: Japan has the oldest population, over 28% aged 65 or older and with this segment they value functional food that can help our brain and body.

High demand for quality and freshness: Japanese buyers are extremely sensitive to the product quality, visual appeal and freshness. 

Limited domestic avocado production: Japan doesn't grow avocados at scale, making it dependent on imports.

Convenience - oriented lifestyle: Consumers prefer easy to eat, ready to use or prepackaged food options.

Avocados are aligned with health trends. 

Mexican avocados are already the top selling imported avocados in Japan.

The rise in Western style cuisine has increased avocado usage in restaurants and homes. 

Consumers value natural food with low sugar and plant based.

Mexican exporters could offer ready to eat, sliced or packaged avocados.

Orientation of the company and international vocation: Exporters and associations like APEAM have international experience and consumer validation. This makes it easier to expand into new segments within Japan, such as the elderly population or premium health-conscious consumers.

Type of product to market: Strategies for a perishable, high-contact product like this differ from those for industrial or intermediary products.

It determines packaging, distribution channels, retail presence, and promotional efforts.

Investment available for market entry: Exporting to Japan requires significant logistics, compliance, and marketing investment.

Only companies with sufficient resources can afford to meet Japanese food safety and labeling regulations, customize product formats or enter premium retail channels.

I suggest the direct mode of operation.

In the part of the importer or commercial distributor, because this model allows the Mexican company to maintain control over product quality and branding, while relying on the local partner’s infrastructure and market knowledge.

The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).

UNIDO and JICA offer technical support to improve production quality, logistics, and compliance with Japanese standards.

National Agricultural Council (CNA).

FOODEX Japan.