Updates on the state of emergency (7 April to 6 May 2020).
MEASURES
- On 29 April, the government announced stricter border enforcement measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including the stepped-up entry ban, quarantine measures, suspension of visa validity and exemption measures, and restrictions on airport/ports for arrival.
- In addition, Japan’s Cabinet has approved a revised economic package to support the economy in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) will be receiving supplementary budget to support the food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors.
IMPACT ON FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN
- Amid the state of emergency in Japan, on 24 April, the MAFF issued the current food supply status in Japan. For manufacturers, the demand for products continues to rise. In order to meet the needs of consumers, the manufacturers (frozen products) will continue to operate in full production and some of the manufacturers (instant noodles, retort food) will continue to increase their production to support the adequate supply of food. In addition to increasing the capacity of manufacturing, some of the manufacturers have shifted their manufacturing focus in order to produce products in high demands. Also, there have been some delays in terms of the shipments of food products (pasta) to Japan too.