Mexico’s Bell Peppers Finally Reach Japan After 16 Years

MEXICO CITY — After 16 years of technical and diplomatic negotiations, Mexico has achieved a historic milestone: its fresh bell peppers will now be eligible for export to Japan, one of the world's most stringent markets for phytosanitary standards. The decision was officially published on September 17 in Japan's official gazette by the country's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), which included Mexican bell peppers in its basic food basket.

A Process That Began in 2009

The path to achieving this authorization began in 2009, when Mexico's National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety and Quality (Senasica) initiated conversations with its Japanese counterparts. The objective was to demonstrate, with scientific evidence, that the bell pepper is not susceptible to tobacco blue mold, a pest that has been under quarantine in Japan since 1945.

Scientific Research and Collaboration

The research was carried out by specialists from the Center for Research in Food and Development (CIAD), coordinated by Raymundo S. García Estrada, with the support of producer organizations such as the Confederation of Agricultural Associations of the State of Sinaloa (CAADES) and the Mexican Association of Protected Horticulture. This joint effort ensured that the strict phytosanitary standards demanded by Japan were rigorously met.

Work Plan and Producer Registration

In July 2025, the MAFF and Senasica signed the "Work plan for the export of fresh bell pepper fruits from Mexico to Japan," which establishes the phytosanitary and logistical conditions for commercialization. With the official publication, interested producers must now register their production units and packing facilities with Senasica to be included on the authorized list of exporters.

Diversification of Mexican Agrifood Exports

Mexico currently exports pork and beef, avocado, asparagus, berries, tomatoes, mango, grapes, orange juice, and vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower to Japan. The inclusion of bell peppers further diversifies the national offering, opening new commercial opportunities for Mexican farmers in one of the world's most demanding and high-value markets.

A Historic Achievement and Result of Collaboration

Mexico's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (Sader) emphasized that this achievement is the fruit of more than a decade and a half of joint work between authorities, scientists, and producers. "This concludes a 16-year process that opens new commercial opportunities for Mexican farmers in a high-value and high-demand market," the agency highlighted, solidifying Mexico's position as a reference in the export of fresh vegetables.