The future of Japan’s dairy industry depends on its ability to adapt and innovate.
By embracing new entrants and equipping them with the necessary tools and support, the industry can secure its place as a vital component of Japan’s economy. The path forward involves balancing tradition with modernity, ensuring that the next wave of dairy farmers leads the sector into a prosperous future.
Japan’s dairy industry, though relatively small compared to giants like the U.S., plays a crucial role in the country’s economy and food security. With approximately 1.4 million cows across 14,000 herds, the need to sustain and innovate within this sector is pressing, especially as the current generation of farmers ages and retires. This transition opens up avenues for new entrants to infuse fresh ideas and practices into the industry, thereby ensuring its rejuvenation.
The transition of new entrants into dairy farming could be transformative, fostering innovation, sustainability, and rejuvenation within the sector. Outlined at the 2024 World Dairy Summit in Paris, providing support to these burgeoning dairy farmers is essential not just for sustaining production levels but also for ensuring the continued supply of dairy products across Japan.
Challenges for Newcomers
Starting a dairy farm in Japan is no small feat. Newcomers face several daunting challenges, such as high initial investment costs, the difficulty of acquiring land due to Japan’s limited space and navigating stringent regulatory requirements. Furthermore, they must keep pace with technological advancements and consumer expectations while maintaining sustainable and ethical farming practices.
The Hokkaido Agricultural Public Corporation plays a vital role by buying and maintaining ceased dairy farms, which are then leased to young couples for a five-year period. If successful, these young farmers can eventually purchase the farms. Such initiatives significantly reduce financial barriers for newcomers.
A prominent success story is that of Segawa Ichiro, who transitioned into dairy farming after extensive training in Japan, the U.S., and New Zealand. His story underscores the importance of experience, savings, and the strategic use of leasing systems to start a farm without heavy financial burdens.
After Ichiro got married in 2004, he started farming in his hometown of Suo Oshima Island.
“I started farming at the age of 35, and I think it would have been better if it were a little earlier, but I had the experience and savings,” he said. “When I quit the farm in Tottori and got married, I was looking for a new place to farm. I happened to find a dairy farm in my hometown, the owner of which had died of illness. I moved in, bought cows and trucks with my savings, and started the farm on a lease. I was able to start with no debt and rent, so I felt comfortable.”
Embracing Innovation and Sustainability
One of the most promising aspects of fostering new dairy farmers is the potential for embracing innovation and sustainable practices. The new generation can focus on eco-friendly farming methods, data-driven processes, and adapting to climate change. By championing sustainability, they contribute positively to the environment and enhance the industry’s long-term viability.
Additional Measures and Programs
In addition to the leasing systems, other measures include the Zenraku Academy, established by the National Federation of Dairy Co-operative Associations and the Dairy Farmers Association of Japan. This program employs and trains young people for three years, culminating in them taking over farms they train on.
• The JA Livestock Farm Succession Support Project, launched in 2001, highlights further efforts, with 381 farms succeeded by young farmers within two years of its inception. Additionally, dairy helper systems play a crucial role, offering farmers relief and a pathway to becoming new farmers themselves.
• The Dairy Helper System allows specialized helpers go to dairy farms twice a day to milk and undertake other tasks, to provide relief for farmers. It currently consists of more than 250 organizations nationwide, with 900 full-time helpers, plus 600 part-time helpers. On average, the program provides 24 days relief per year/ per farm. Working as a dairy helper is also a career path to become a new farmer with 245 new farmers since 1994.
• The Mutual Assistance System for Injury and Illness by dairy helper organizations aids in helping dairy farmers who are hospitalized due to illness or injury. They can use a dairy helper service which allows dairy farmers to continue milking and to undertake other dairy farming tasks at a discounted usage fee. As a result, dairy farmers who were forced to cease farming due to long-term hospitalization have been able to continue their business. This is an effective system for addressing age-related illnesses frequently associated with the aging of dairy farmers.
Fostering new dairy farmers in Japan is a multifaceted endeavor that requires collaboration from government bodies, industry leaders, and the farmers themselves. By supporting these newcomers, Japan can ensure a robust and resilient dairy industry that meets both national and global demands. With the right guidance and resources, the future of dairy farming in Japan holds tremendous promise and potential for growth.
You can now read the most important #news on #eDairyNews #Whatsapp channels!!!
🇺🇸 eDairy News INGLÊS: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaKsjzGDTkJyIN6hcP1K
