U.S. & Japanese peanut industry leaders
In May, a delegation of U.S. peanut industry leaders traveled to Japan for a strategic trade mission led by the American Peanut Council (APC), aiming to deepen relationships with top U.S. agriculture and trade officials, importers, manufacturers, and other key stakeholders in one of the industry’s most vital export markets.
Japan ranks as the fifth-largest destination for U.S. peanuts and peanut products. In 2024 alone, the United States exported more than 16,000 metric tons of peanuts to Japan, valued at $31.4 million.
The APC-led trade mission underscores a shared commitment to expanding the market for high-quality American peanuts. Delegates are participating in several high-level engagements, including meetings with officials from the U.S. Embassy and a trade reception hosted at the U.S. Ambassador’s Residence in Tokyo. The group is also touring peanut roasting and sorting facilities and visiting retail locations to better understand how U.S. peanut products are marketed and consumed in Japan.
“Japan continues to be a vital partner for the U.S. peanut industry, both as a reliable trade ally and as a market where consumers appreciate the quality and versatility of American peanuts,” said Peter Vlazakis, vice president of international programs at the American Peanut Council. “This mission reinforces our commitment to strengthening these relationships and identifying new opportunities for growth.”
National Peanut Board Chair Casey Cox Kerr, who represented the Board on the mission, emphasized the long-term significance of investing in global partnerships.
“Building direct relationships with international partners helps us better understand the needs and preferences of global consumers,” Cox Kerr said. “As a peanut grower, it’s encouraging to see firsthand how our crop plays a role in global food systems and contributes to economic growth abroad.”
Delegates for the 2025 Japan trade mission include:
Jean-Paul Bodourian, Premium Peanut
Sonny Deuell, Birdsong Peanuts
Casey Cox Kerr, National Peanut Board
Dave Sawyer, North Carolina Peanut Growers Association
Peter Vlazakis, American Peanut Council
The mission represents a united effort by the U.S. peanut industry to build on a legacy of quality, innovation and international collaboration.