HCMC – The Consulate General of Japan in HCMC, in collaboration with the Tajimi Sake Brewers Association of Gifu Prefecture, held the “Explore Gifu Sake 2025” event on December 5, introducing Vietnamese partners to the rich sake-making tradition of central Japan.
The event brought together 10 sake producers from Gifu, offering a platform for Vietnamese and Japanese businesses to connect, explore potential partnerships and learn more about regional Japanese craftsmanship.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ono Masuo, consul general of Japan in HCMC, said sake is produced across Japan in regions shaped by varying climates and natural conditions. He said brewing techniques have been refined over centuries and passed down through generations, and noted that sake continues to play a role in cultural and ceremonial activities, including festivals and weddings. UNESCO added “Traditional Japanese Sake Brewing” to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2024.
Gifu Prefecture, located near the center of Japan, is known for its mountain ranges and river systems that support a range of brewing styles. With ten breweries from the province taking part in the event, Masuo urged guests to sample the products and learn about their distinctive characteristics.
Masuo said he hoped the event would help Vietnamese consumers better understand Japanese sake and strengthen cultural exchange between the two countries.
In the first ten months of this year, Vietnam’s exports to Japan reached US$22.03 billion, up 8.8% year-on-year. Meanwhile, Vietnam imported US$20.4 billion worth of goods from Japan in the same period, a year-on-year increase of 14.4%.
