Core Insights - The consumption of prepared dishes, particularly flavored crayfish, is a prevalent trend among Japanese consumers, facilitated by freezing and vacuum packaging methods [1][3] - The market for prepared Chinese cuisine in Japan is expanding, driven by increasing consumer interest in Chinese dishes and the introduction of various products [3] Industry Overview - The prepared crayfish market in Japan includes products such as spicy, garlic, and thirteen-spice flavored crayfish, which are sold as frozen foods [1] - The Japanese frozen food market is projected to reach a record high of 1.3 trillion yen (approximately 62.5 billion RMB) in 2024, indicating significant growth [3] - In 2022, the per capita consumption of prepared foods in Japan was 23.2 kilograms, compared to 9.1 kilograms in China, 16.1 kilograms in the United States, and 16.8 kilograms in the United Kingdom [3] Company Activities - A company led by Wang Hongxin exports approximately 150 tons of prepared crayfish annually to Japan, including various products like clear water shrimp and shrimp meat [3] - The company has expanded its customer base from primarily Chinese grocery stores to include Japanese supermarkets, reflecting a growing acceptance of Chinese cuisine in Japan [3] - The introduction of other prepared products, such as shrimp dumplings and seasoned fish, is part of the company's strategy to diversify offerings in the Japanese market [3]

Core Insights - The small lobster industry in Qianjiang, Hubei, is experiencing stable growth despite price fluctuations in other regions, attributed to effective local policies and innovative farming practices [3][4][5] Group 1: Market Performance - In the first half of 2023, the average price of small lobsters in Qianjiang increased by 16.7% for small lobsters (2-4 taels) and 8.2% for medium lobsters (4-6 taels) compared to the previous year [1] - The total output of small lobsters in Qianjiang reached 25,600 tons in the first quarter of 2023, marking a year-on-year growth of approximately 9%, with a total output value of 2.732 billion yuan, up 41.21% [4] Group 2: Industry Development - The local government has implemented the "Shrimp Ten Articles" policy to support the high-quality development of the small lobster industry, promoting sustainable practices [3] - Qianjiang has established 48 small lobster processing enterprises with an annual processing capacity of 800,000 tons, ensuring stable market prices for farmers [5] Group 3: Innovative Practices - The introduction of a winter fishing ceremony in December 2024 aims to achieve staggered market supply, enhancing farmers' risk resistance and overall income [3][4] - The integration of technology in farming practices has helped alleviate seasonal production challenges, contributing to the goal of having lobsters available year-round [3][4] Group 4: Future Outlook - The sales volume of fresh small lobsters in Qianjiang is expected to exceed 200,000 tons in 2024, with a transaction value surpassing 10 billion yuan [7] - The industry is projected to continue its growth trajectory, with the first half of 2025 already seeing a transaction volume of 177,000 tons and a value of 7.527 billion yuan [7]